Matthew 6:25-34
Read Matthew 6:25-34
Helpful Background Information:
In our text for this Friday, we find Jesus’s teaching on anxiety. But notice the first word in verse 25: “Therefore.” When you see the word “therefore” in Scripture, you need to look at what came before to see what it's there for! Before teaching on anxiety, we see the second sermon passage from Matthew 6:19-24, which we read on Tuesday. In context, Jesus' teaching on anxiety is a direct application of his teaching on a godly view of wealth!
In context, it makes sense why Jesus would discuss anxiety as a result of a godly view of wealth. If one hears not to store up worldly wealth, it is understandable that some may ask, “How can I make ends meet? How can I pay my bills? How will I make it through to tomorrow if I don’t have money?” A helpful thing to note is what “worry” or “anxiety” means biblically. The word for anxiety is the Greek word “μεριμνάω” (Merimnao), which denotes being concerned about something or prioritizing something. Hence, sinful anxiety (which Jesus is describing) is being overly concerned or improperly prioritizing a situation or object (e.g., food, clothing, health, finances, a hard conversation, work situations) to such an extent that one fails to recognize the sovereignty of God, fails to put his kingdom first, and is overly troubled by such a concern.
Having a proper, godly view on money and wealth should not leave one prone to sinful anxiety. Jesus forbidding ‘anxiety’ does not rule out a responsible concern and provision for one’s own and others’ material needs, nor does Jesus here forbid us to work - but rather Jesus is stressing that our main priority, our main concern, should be for God’s glory and his Kingdom. When we realize our wealth is a gift from the Lord that is to be used for his glory, our response should be one of dependency on and joy in the Lord’s provision, not fear and doubt.
Reflection Questions:
In what ways can trusting in God’s provision help us become more generous and open-handed with our resources?
How would you define the difference between responsible concern and sinful anxiety based on this passage and the devotional? Besides finances, what are some other areas of life where you experience sinful anxiety? How do Jesus’ words encourage you?
Jesus says, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.” What does that practically look like with finances and other areas of daily life?