Look Again and Think

by James MacDonald
DESCRIPTION
Jesus Christ knows our circumstances better than we do, and He says we must not think about these things to the point where they become the primary concern of our lives.
And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “What shall we wear?” For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. —Matthew 6:27-33

A warning which needs to be repeated is that “the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches,” and the lust for the other things, will choke out the life of God in us (see Matthew 13:22 NKJV).

We are never free from recurring waves of this invasion. If the front line of attack is not about clothes and food, it may be about money or the lack of money; or friends or lack of friends. Or the line may be drawn over difficult circumstances. It is one steady invasion, and these things will come in like a flood, unless we allow the Spirit of God to raise up the banner against it.

“I say to you, do not worry about your life” (Matthew 6:25 NKJV). Our Lord says to be careful about one thing —our relationship with Him. But our common sense shouts loudly and says, “That’s absurd, I must consider how I am going to live, and I must consider what I am going to eat and drink.”

Jesus Christ knows our circumstances better than we do, and He says we must not think about these things to the point where they become the primary concern of our lives. Whenever there are competing concerns in your life, be sure you always put your relationship with God first.

“Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:34). How much trouble has begun to threaten you today? What kind of mean little demons have been looking into your life and saying, “What are your plans for next month—or next summer?” Jesus tells us not to worry about any of these things. Look again and think. Keep your mind on the “much more” (Matthew 6:30) of your heavenly Father.

Journal:

How much importance do I place on spending time nurturing my relationship with the Lord versus planning my life?
What does it look like to put my relationship with Christ first in my life? Who will hold me accountable to doing that?
Prayer: Dear Father, my prayer this day is to seek You first. I spend my time running around in busyness rather than looking closely to how You would have me spend my time. Help me to thirst for You more, Lord. And if that means bringing trials into my life to keep my attention on You, then go ahead. Just help me through them! In Jesus’ name, Amen