by Abbie Tippie
Do not worry. How many times have I heard that before? On a first reading of Matthew 6:25, I think to myself “Wow, maybe I’ve actually got worrying under control.” I mean, Matthew 6:25 says, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.” How much time to I actually spend worrying about my food or my clothes? Not much. Instead, I’ve “graduated” to much bigger worries or concerns: job/career, singleness/marriage, finances, and my future. Where are those worries listed in Matthew 6? Most of the time, I feel pretty confident that God has taken care of my needs; what about my hopes, fears, dreams and desires?
At a second glance, I see in Matthew 6 how God does care about these worries too. In verses 28-29, Matthew paints a vivid picture of how the lilies of the field are dressed in even more splendor than Solomon. This reference to Solomon draws me to 1 Kings 3:1-15 where, in response to his worries, Solomon asks God for wisdom. What is God’s reply? Not only does God give Solomon a wise and discerning heart, but He also provides him with things he did not ask for, namely, riches and honor (1 Kings 3:13). God not only provides for Solomon’s needs, but provides more abundantly than Solomon could even ask or fathom.
Our heavenly Father knows what we need (verse 32), and is very aware of our wants as well. My prayer is that my eyes would be open to everything around me – the birds of the air, the lilies of the field – as an example of God the Provider. May I also reflect upon God’s constant provision in my life, especially for ways He’s provided above and beyond my basic needs. May I look upon God with gratitude for how He continues to be faithful. I pray also that I will seek His kingdom and righteousness (verse 33) in everything I think, say, or do, and that I may place my confidence in God for everything… including all my hopes, fears, dreams and desires.
Your fellow traveler,
Abbie