Connected in The Word 8-4-25
And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. Luke 12:22
I could easily read the verse above and convince myself I’m doing a good job. I don’t think life is all about food, my body, or clothing. Most people can figure this out right away just by looking at me. If I continue reading in Luke 12, I can also say that I don’t think life is all about having lots of stuff or money. So, I tell myself that I’m doing well because I don’t think life is all about food, my body, clothing, stuff, or money. I just don’t get anxious about that stuff.
But there’s something else that most people figure out once they get to know me a little. I’m someone that gets anxious about life! I may not care about what I look like, the clothes I wear, or how much stuff or money I have, but there are plenty of other things in life that cause my anxiety level to rise. I get anxious about sick kids, hurting other people’s feelings, and having my daily routine and plans thrown out of whack. I worry just like everyone else.
However, if I go back and read Luke 12 again, I don’t think Jesus is telling us we have a “worrying” problem. Instead, I think He is telling us we have a “seeking” problem. Here’s what He says in verses 29-31: “And do not SEEK what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. For all the nations of the world SEEK after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, SEEK his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.” Am I seeking to live under the rule and reign of Jesus, or am I seeking to live under the rule and reign of Keith? There will always be worries and anxieties in life – We are human! Don’t “worry” about your worries. Instead, ask yourself whose rule and reign delivers peace, forgiveness of sins, and eternal life! Rejoice that God desires to give you the kingdom!