TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.” Matthew 6:28-29
Read: Matthew 6:28-30
Listen: Matthew 6
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Jesus’s teaching on worry is not quite yet done. After telling his audience to look up at the birds and then down at the flowers, he tells them to notice the people around them. He calls their attention to the “pagans,” those non-Jews who live in a region on the eastern edge of Israel. He wants them to notice how they live with a frantic sense of desperation in pursuit of what they need to eat, wear and drink. Some of that desperation would be seen in their constant begging and pleading to Roman “gods” who could not help.
But Jesus says, “Don’t worry” to those who follow him and desire God’s rule and reign. Watch this video clip as Pastor Aaron Buer talks about how Jesus reminds them that God—who sees all and knows all—is intimately familiar with each of their needs.
We, too, can easily get caught up in pursuing the same things as everyone else. We want the newest phone upgrade, the next great vacation experience or likes on social media. We’re constantly running after the latest and greatest thing. But Jesus tells us to stop running and find what we really need in his way of living.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Memorize Matthew 6:33, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” When tempted to begin living like all those around you, recall this verse and use it to remind you of God’s care for you.
2022 BIBLE MEMORY PRACTICE
Develop spiritual roots and tap in the power of God’s word by memorizing monthly a Bible verse! View previous verses at beyondtheweekend.org/biblememorypractice.
“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.”
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
