Devotionals

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“So I tell you, don’t worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food, drink and clothes. Doesn’t life consist of more than food and clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because your heavenly Father feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than they are.” Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not. And why worry about clothes? Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow, won’t he more surely care for you? You have so little faith!
--Matthew 6:25-30 (NLT)

I’ve got a confession to make: I worry. I worry a lot sometimes. Okay, sometimes it seems like I worry all the time. I even worry that I’m worrying so much!

Lately, I’ve succumbed to spending time during the day just worrying about how to pay our bills or how we’re going to afford things that are months down the road. It’s a pathetic waste of time to worry, and even though I know that, I do it anyway. I have such little faith. (Sigh.)

Last night, my husband and I had a discussion regarding our finances, and he lovingly but firmly told me that I need to stop worrying about money. It’s true. I do. I thought I'd given my concerns to the Lord, but I guess I keep taking them back.

So, this morning, I sat down to spend time with the Lord and I sensed the Spirit guiding me to Matthew. I’ve often thought back to this passage during my worry sessions, but this morning was the first time I’d pondered it in awhile. It was long overdue. Immediately, I was convicted. “So I tell you, don’t worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food, drink and clothes…" (vs. 25)

Jesus tells us not to worry, and for good reason—it’s sinful and unnecessary. He’s got it all under control. We’re more precious to Him than the birds or the flowers, and God faithfully takes care of them. In fact, Jesus says that we’re “far more valuable” to Him. Why wouldn’t He care for me just as faithfully? Oh, what a comforting reminder that is, Lord!

Some things are much easier said than done. Ceasing to worry seems to be one of those things for me. But as I meditate on God’s promises and trust in His faithfulness and His goodness, my worries and burdens are lifted and I have the freedom to spend my time wisely.

Sure, I feel lighter today, but I know the temptation to worry will return. When it does, I’m headed straight for God’s reminder in Matthew: He’s got it under control and my worrying is all for nothing. Thank the Lord!

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Jesus, thank you so much for your Word and for the wisdom and comfort it brings. Lord, I give you everything I have and surrender my feeble attempts to make any difference in my circumstances by worrying about them. I repent of this sin, Father. You don’t need me—I need you. Thank you for choosing me and being so patient with me. Please strengthen me and remind me of all the ways you care for me. Thank you for being my Provider. I trust that you will continue to keep me safe and supply all of my needs according to Your glorious riches. Thank you for treasuring me and caring for me so tenderly, even more than you do the birds and flowers. I love you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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