Daily Devotional from Pastor Mary 08-03-22

Intro: Are you tempted to be a worrier—tempted by anxious or disturbing thoughts? What kinds of thoughts capture and drag you into the den of worry? Many people exhaust themselves worrying about money or never having enough to live. Certainly, we should take responsibility for our lives by working and making wise decisions, but it will always be necessary for us to trust the love of God with our lives. That is why Jesus commands us not to worry. Worry causes stress; stress causes poor health and prompts disease. God does not want any of that for us. So, instead of falling into worry, the Lord instructs us to use our faith by praying, seeking God’s Kingdom of unlimited supply, and asking for what we need (Mat 7:7).


When we seek salvation in Christ, we become God’s children. The Creator of all things in heaven and on earth becomes our Father. He is ready to care for us and provide for us. Everything belongs to God and when we seek His Kingdom and His way of being righteous, God provides the things we need. We may not have all the things we want, but that doesn’t justify worry either, because let’s be honest, that is an attitude of greed. If we truly believe God loves us enough to die for us, why would we worry about even our necessities?


Holocaust survivor, Corrie Ten Boom, once said, “Worrying is carrying tomorrow’s load with today’s strength—carrying two days at once. It is moving into tomorrow ahead of time. Worrying doesn’t empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.” The Bible is described as God’s Testimony; therefore, the great task before us each day is to believe the Word of God is true when the Lord testifies how much He loves us. Jesus knows we can get weary and burdened, but He promises rest for our souls (Mat 11:28). We need to take God at His Word. When we trust God with our lives, we are acting by faith and living our worship.
Luke 12:22-31 Teaching about Money and Possessions


22 Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. 23 For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. 24 Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! 25 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? 26 And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?


27 “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. 28 And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?
29 “And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. 30 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. 31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for promising to care and provide for us as Your children. As we seek Your Kingdom supply, we place our faith in Your Word knowing You cannot lie. In Jesus’ name. Amen.