31. So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32. For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Jesus tells His followers not to be worriers instead grow in trust in God and keep proper priorities in life. It is our habit to concentrate on things we need in this world to the neglect of the most important relationship beyond this world. Things of this world capture us and so much of our time and attention. We worry about everything and anything.
Jesus says let the most important priority take over. “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness.”
Romans 8:28 is still in the Bible "All things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purpose." Worry acts as if there is no God. Worry implies He is a liar and His word and promises are untrue. Trust says, even though, I don't understand, God does, and I am putting myself in His care and under His control. He won't let anything happen out of His ultimate will.
When Jesus points to all the things we worry about, they will shortly be gone. Even this life is short-lived from God’s perspective. So then, what should our priorities be? This is not a call to poverty; it is a call to putting eternal things ahead of temporary things. It is a call to godliness instead of worldliness.
From Jesus’ perspective is giving undo worry and attention to money, physical appearance, food, clothing, and relationships.
At one time we had a dog, two parakeets and about a dozen fish. They were pets. Those two birds cowered when I come to the cage and got upset when I put my hand in their cage to change their water and give them more food. I try to talk to them, but they didn’t respond back.
I had zero attachment to the fish. However, I had to clean the pond of algae and keep the filter bubbling, so they had oxygen. Even in the winter, since the pond was outside, I had to purchase a tank heater to keep them going.
At least the dog wags its tail and will acknowledge my presence when I come into the house. For all the problems she can be, she gives me the impression every day that I mean more to her than just food and a means to go outside. Of all the Cope pets she is the only one who shows me some love.
I love my children deeply. Can you begin to imagine that I would do nothing less for Bryan and Justin that I would for my pets? Even though they are grown now I find I want to be sure they are safe and provided for. If we feed and care for our dog, don't you think we will surely feed and care for our children? All my pets would die first before I would neglect my children. That's the same with God and how He feels about you! So, stop worrying.
Prayer: Lord, I trust You. Today I bring all my worries and concerns to You in prayer and thanksgiving. Thank you for hearing my prayer.
