First Things First PIII

Matthew 6:31-34

Have you considered that how we deal with stress is an act of worship and stewardship? Stewardship is not just about money and time and talents, it is also about managing who and how we are to be. 

Ask yourself this: How can worry help you? Now read the passage! When we have worry at our side, we will doubt the capability, goodness, care, love, and power of our God We cannot obtain the goals He has for us. We are not seeking Him or trusting in Him. Instead, worry has our attention (Rom. 8:31-39).

How can we counteract worry? As the previous passage taught us–by laying up treasure in heaven (Matt. 19:21; Luke 12:33-34; 1 Tim. 6:17-19).

What does this mean? We have to know that the Christian life is not always safe. There are dangers, and we will have problems and setbacks. We have to be willing to risk it all for His glory, as our life is not here, but our work is! Worry countermands risk, and the fulfilling of our call. We need to see God as the great Creator and Sustainer–as He is. As He created and sustains the universe, He can also sustain us!

How can I apply this? Have faith in God’s providence! If God, through His providence, provides for the needs of the birds, will He not do the same for you (Matt. 10:29-31)? How are you more valuable than birds and flowers?

How can you prevent worry? By knowing that:

We are created in the image of God!

We are redeemed by the blood of the Lamb–His Son!

Worrying about things does nothing to help provide for you! In fact, it will take you further away from help and solutions, as your energies will be so wrapped up in worry, you will accomplish nothing toward providing for yourself!

God has the ability and willingness to provide! Is He not able and willing to do so for you?

If we take to heart what Jesus says, then our lives will be like the house built upon a rock. We are not capable of handling tomorrow’s worries, because we have no control over the future. Worrying about the future will only distract us from the duties in the present. Trust in God! People without God naturally have a real need to worry about these things. However, if you have received His grace, and He is ruling in your heart, you do not need to worry (Matt. 7:24-25)!

Questions to Ponder

We all worry, but, when you think it through, why do we worry?

What is it that is so important when compared to our purpose, call, Christ’s care and love, and our place in eternity?

Make a list of all the things that cause you to worry. Then, brainstorm on how to rid yourself of these, or what you can do to control your worrying.