The Command
“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:31-33)
What It Means
Food, drink, and clothing stand for the things of this world that people spend their lives chasing. Jesus says non-Christians pour their energy into those things, but your Father already knows you need them. He asks you to put something else first: God’s kingdom, and living the way God wants. Then he promises that the rest will be added.
Try It Today
What is the one thing you’re most worried or anxious about providing today? It might be dinner, a bill, or something on the list that has to get done. Before you start on it, take a few minutes to ask God what he wants from you today, and do that first. Then go back to the worry and see whether it feels any different.
Tonight’s Prayer
Father, you know what I need. Help me ask what you want from me before I start worrying about the rest, and trust you with it. Amen.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.