Many of us find it easy to worry about things in our life. Matters that relate to our jobs, families, finances, and more can cause anxiety. But Jesus told his followers, “Do not be worried about your life” (Matthew 6:25). Sometimes this is easier said than done. But notice what Jesus said about this subject:
“For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not the life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life?” (Matthew 6:25-27).
In these verses, Jesus asked three questions. As the master teacher, He was able to ask questions in a way that was more instructive than inquisitive. Notice the three points Jesus made that will help us deal with anxiety.
- There are more important things to consider (Matthew 6:25) – Yes, food and clothing are important. But a few verses later Jesus explained how we should order our priorities: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). We need to put a priority on spiritual things. We must recognize that the physical things we worry about are only temporal.
- We are valuable in the sight of God (Matthew 6:26) – God provides for the birds of the air. Jesus said that in God’s eyes we are worth much more than birds. If God will provide for the needs of animals, He will provide for our needs.
- It does no good to worry (Matthew 6:27) – We cannot prolong our lives by worrying. Another translation mentioned one adding height to his physical body. No good is accomplished by worrying. Good will be accomplished when we consider the situation and act appropriately. Anxiety hinders us from doing this.
When you are tempted to worry, remember what Jesus taught. Make sure you have your priorities in the proper order. Know that you are valuable in the sight of God. Recognize that worrying will do no good to help the situation that is causing you the anxiety.
Remember also the benefit of prayer. Paul wrote, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
Let us keep all of these things in mind. Do not let anxiety hinder you from serving God. Put your faith and trust in Him that He will take care of you, as long as you “seek first His kingdom and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33).
