“So do not worry and say, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear?’ But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.” (Matthew 6:31, 33)

Jesus is exhorting us not to worry.   As God provides food for the birds and clothes the flowers with beauty, so will he provide for us.  Jesus says we should seek God’s kingdom first, and all these things will be provided as well.

The variety and subject of our worry is almost endless.  We can worry about our health, jobs, the well-being of loved ones, and what people think of us.  It is not uncommon to worry about all the preparations for a wedding or other big event, only to see it take place, and later wonder what all the worry was about.

When I look back on the greatest opportunities for worry in my life, I thank God that he was present when our youngest daughter underwent open heart surgery at age four.  I thank God that I was not relying only on my own pro and con list when making a major career decision impacting our family.  I thank God for his kingdom in surrounding me with a loving wife, family and friends when having surgery for an aggressive and advanced form of prostate cancer.  That was almost 20 years ago.

Seeking God’s kingdom along with his guidance requires faith in his love for us and trust in his provision.  We need detachment from trying to control the timing, means and outcome. 

When Martha complained to Jesus about her sister, Mary not helping her in meal preparation for Jesus’ visit, Jesus said, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed.  Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42) Mary was sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening to him. 

What is your antidote to worry – listening to Jesus or relying on your own resources?