Embracing God’s Care in a Worry-filled World

 

 

Sermon on Mount -17

 

TITLE: Embracing God’s Care in a Worry-filled World.

TEXT: Matthew 6:25-34

TONE: Encouragement

TARGET: Believers

TASK: To encourage believers to embrace the providential care of God to overcome worry.

TEACH: In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, worry has become a prevalent issue affecting countless individuals. The hustle and bustle of daily life, combined with uncertainties about the future, can leave people feeling overwhelmed by anxiety and stress. This growing concern is evident not just anecdotally but also through various statistics that highlight its impact on mental and spiritual health.

 

For instance, according to recent studies, anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. The World Health Organization estimates that over 260 million people suffer from anxiety globally. In the United States alone, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that anxiety disorders affect over 18% of the population annually. These number reflect not just personal struggles but also a societal challenge, as worry and stress can impact productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life.

 

The digital age has further amplified these concerns. The constant influx of news, social media pressures, and the fear of missing out (FOMO) contribute to heightened levels of worry and restlessness. We are inundated with information that our minds must constantly sift through, often leading to fear about events we cannot control. And we have not even discussed economic pressures, job security, and health concerns.

 

Anxiety is a meteor-shower of what-ifs. What if I don’t close the sale? What is we can’t afford braces for the kids? Is your heart is weighed down with worry? Could you use some calm? If so, let me assure you, you are not alone. Conquering anxiety and worry take some work on our part, but it is not God’s will that you lead a life of perpetual anxiety. God loves His children. He oversees the world. He monitors your life.

 

However, in light of all this, our faith and reliance on God’s divine providence can be a beacon of hope and stability. The timeless wisdom of scripture offers guidance and hope on how to combat worry and embrace peace.

 

TRUTH: In the last sermon, Matthew 6:19-24, Jesus focused on the attitude toward luxury, the unnecessary physical possessions men store and stockpile for selfish reasons. In verses 25-34 He focuses on the attitude toward daily necessities: food, drink, clothing. The first passage is directed particularly at the rich and the second particularly for the poor. Both being rich and being poor have their special problems. The rich a tempted to trust in their possessions, and the poor are tempted to doubt God’s provision. The rich are tempted to be self-satisfied, and the poor are tempted to worry and fret. Whether people are rich or poor or somewhere in between -their attitude toward material possessions says a lot about their spiritual condition…The heart of Jesus’ message in our present passage is: Don’t worry -not even about the necessities. (John MacArthur, Matthew, pg. 418.)

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I.                             Trust in God’s Provision (6:25-26)

Explanation: Focus on the importance of life beyond physical needs. Life is more than food and clothing. We also learn from nature, which testifies to God’s care. Therefore, the teaching of Jesus emphasizes the concept of God’s providence, a theological doctrine that asserts God’s continual involvement and governance over His creation. The passage brings to light the dynamic relationship between God’s sovereign power and human dependency. By observance the birds, which do not partake in human agricultural practices, yet are sustained by God, believers can gain a deeper understanding of how God orchestrates care intricately and attentively for all His creation -implying a far more profound care for humanity make in His image.

 

We must trust in God’s providential provision. God’s providence assures us that He is actively involved in the world and in our personal lives. Recognizing that God is aware of our needs and working out His plan for our good allows us to relinquish worries about every detail in our lives. We can trust that God sees the bigger picture.

 

Yet, so many are overcome with anxiety failing to trust in God’s provision. Why is this true?

 

1.        Uncertainty and Fear: Life is inherently uncertain, and when faced with challenges or the unknown, fear can easily take hold. Humans naturally desire control and predictability and when situations get out of control, they have trouble trusting in a God they cannot see.

 

2.        Past Experiences: If someone has faced hardship or had been let down in the past, it can be challenging to believe that God will provide in future situations.

 

3.        Cultural Pressures: Society often emphasizes self-reliance, autonomy, and the idea that success is solely the result of personal effort. This cultural mindset can make it harder to lean on faith instead of oneself.

 

4.        Impatience: Trust requires patience and waiting, which can be difficult, especially in a culture that values instant gratification. People may struggle with trusting God’s timing and instead want answers and solutions immediately.

 

5.        Lack of Faith or Understanding: Trusting in God’s provision can be particularly difficult for those who struggle with their faith or understanding of spirituality. Doubts about the existence of God or His willingness or ability to provide can undermine trust.

 

6.        Comparison to Others: Seeing others who seem to be thriving without apparent hardship can lead to questioning why one’s own path might be more difficult an whether God’s provision is truly at work.

 

7.        Internal Conflict: People may experience inner conflict between their faith and their personal circumstances, leading to doubt and questioning. Balancing spiritual teachings with real-world challenges can be difficult.

 

If you are prone to worry, I pray the following verses serve as a healing balm to your soul.

 

Þ   Philippians 4:19 “And my God will supply every need of your according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

 

Þ   Psalm 23:1-3 “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name sake.”

 

Þ   2Corinthians 9:8 “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”

 

Þ   Deuteronomy 31:8 “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”

 

Þ   Psalm 34:10 “The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.”

 

Þ   Romans 8:32 “He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things.”

 

Þ   Isaiah 58:11 “And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your homes strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.”

 

Furthermore, we have numerous examples in the Bible of God’s faithful provision.

 

Þ   Manna and Quail in the Wilderness: In Exodus 16, after the Israelites left Egypt and were wandering in the desert, God provided manna, a type of bread from heaven, and quail for them to eat. This daily provision sustained them for forty years in the wilderness.

 

Þ   Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath: In 1Kings 17, during a severe famine, God directed the prophet Elijah to a widow in Zarephath. Despite her initial lack of resources, God miraculously multiplied her flour and oil, providing sustenance for her, her son, and Elijah throughout the famine.

 

Þ   Joseph’s Leadership during the Famine: In the story of Joseph (Genesis 41), God have Joseph wisdom to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams, predicting seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Through Joseph’s leadership, Egypt stored surplus grain during the years of plenty, which provided for Egypt and surrounding nations during the famine.

 

Þ   The Feeding of the 5,000: This miracle, recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 14:13-21), demonstrates Jesus’ provision as He feeds a large crowd with just five loaves of bread and two fish. Afterward, twelve baskets of leftovers were collected, highlighting the abundance of God’s provision.

 

Þ   The Widow’s Oil: In 2Kings 4, a widow approached the prophet Elisha in desperation over her debts. He instructed her to gather empty vessels and pour her small supply of oil into them. God miraculously multiplied the oil, allowing her to sell it, pay off her debts and live on the remainder.

 

Þ   Provision for Elijah by the Ravens: In 1Kings 17, before meeting the widow of Zarephath, God instructed Elijah to go to the brook Cherith. There, God commanded ravens to bring him bread and meat every morning and evening, demonstrating divine provision in a time of need.

 

Þ   The Water from the Rock: In Exodus 17, when the Israelites were without water, God instructed Moses to strike a rock at Horeb. Water flowed from the rock, quenching the thirst of the people and their livestock, showcasing God’s miraculous provision.

 

Þ   Christ Atoning Death: “This is how God showed His love among us, He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”

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II.                         Recognize the Futility of Worry (6:27-30)

Explanation: Anxiety is ineffective. Worry cannot add a single hour to your life. For example, observe God’s provision in nature’s beauty. Marvel at how the lilies are dressed by God. Jesus is drawing attention to the futility of worry and simultaneously, the beauty of divine providence. This teaching is rooted in the fundamental theological concept of God’s sovereignty. God’s active involvement, from the smallest flowers to mankind. Psalm 104:24-25 reflects on the Lord’s wisdom in creation, celebrating how everything is meticulously crafted by God’s hand.

 

 

God’s sovereignty reminds us that He is in control of all things. This knowledge should bring us peace, knowing that nothing happens outside of God’s will. Our lives are not subject to chance, and as we place our trust in His sovereign plan, we find a refuge from worry, trusting that God’s plans are for our ultimate good.

 

Recognizing the sovereignty of God enables us to overcome the trappings of worry. The most stressed-our people are control freaks. The more they try to control their situations or the world, the more they realize they cannot. Life becomes a cycle of anxiety, failure; anxiety, failure. But when you recognize heaven as an occupied throne, you will allow the Lord to be in control. Your anxiety will decrease when your understanding of God’s sovereignty increases.

 

Moreover, the example of the lilies dressed by God beautifully underscores themes of divine grace and glory. Jesus points out that even Solomon, in all his splendor, was not arrayed like one of these, emphasizing that divine care far surpasses human achievement and adornment. God’s provision, then, is not just material but spiritual. Christians are adorned with the Holy Spirit, embraces by God’s love, and have the hope of eternal life. This underscores a fundamental biblical promise -that God’s children are cherished and provided for in ways that reach beyond earthly concerns and into eternal significance.

 

Here are some more healing verses for the worried soul.

 

Þ   Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

 

Þ   1Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”

 

Þ   Psalm 55:22 “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”

 

Þ   Proverbs 12:25 “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.”

 

Helpful reflections for overcoming worry from David Jeremiah (Jeremiah Study Bible, pg. 1258).

 

Þ   Worry is inconsistent: If we trust Jesus to provide us with our life, can we not also trust Him with our daily needs?

 

Þ   Worry is irrational: If our Lord cares for the birds, will he not also care for us, since we are more valuable than birds?

 

Þ   Worry is ineffective: Who among us can add one hour to our life by worrying?

 

Þ   Worry is illogical: If God can clothe the grass of the field with flowers, can He not also clothe us?

 

Þ   Worry is irreligious: When we worry, we act just like those who do not know God.

 

Illustrate: Consider how a parent ensures their child’s needs are met, often with greater care and consideration than what they provide for themselves. God’s care for believers goes for believers goes beyond material concerns, nurturing their hearts and spirits with divine love, wisdom, and mercy, much like a thread of divine grace that clothes with greater splendor than any worldly garment can offer.

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III.                      Seek God’s Kingdom First (6:31-34)

Explanation: At its core, seeking the Kingdom of God means aligning our lives with God’s reign and purposes. It involves placing God at the center of all aspects of life, recognizing His sovereignty and submitting to His will. This involves pursuing a life that reflects God’s character and standards. It means living in a way that is morally upright and just, springing from a relationship with God through Christ. As believers prioritize God’s Kingdom, their hearts and minds are transformed (Rom. 12:2). This transformative journey leads to a life that mirrors God’s love, justice, and mercy. By seeking God’s Kingdom first, Christians shift the focus from self-centered goals to God-centered living. This realignment leads to a life marked by purpose and fulfillment, as one becomes part of God’s redemptive plan for the world.

 

By focusing on today’s responsibilities and leaving tomorrow in God’s hands, believers are released from the bondage of worry. Anxiety often stems from attempting to control what is beyond our grasp; trusting God requires surrender and faith. Jesus encourages living in the present, valuing each day as a gift. This mindset allows for gratitude and attentiveness to God’s current work in your life without being burdened by future uncertainties.

 

Here are some practical ways to seek God’s Kingdom daily.

 

1.        Prayer and Meditation: Regularly spend time in prayer, communicating with God and meditating on His word. This strengthens your relationship with Him and helps align your thoughts with His will.

 

2.        Study Scripture: Ready and study the Bible to gain deeper understanding and insight into God’s teachings and commandments. This helps guide your actions and decisions.

 

3.        Service and Compassion: Engage in acts of service and show compassion to others. This reflects the love and kindness that are central elements of God’s kingdom.

4.        Fellowship with Believers: Surround yourself with a community of believers who support and encourage your spiritual growth. Attend church services, small groups, or Bible studies.

 

5.        Obedience and Mindful Living: Practice obedience by following God’s commandments and teachings in all aspects of life. Live mindfully, making decisions that reflect kingdom values.

 

6.        Sharing the Gospel: Be proactive in sharing your faith and the message of God’s kingdom with others. This includes living out your faith in such a way that it inspires and attracts others.

 

7.        Cultivating a Heart of Gratitude: Develop a grateful attitude by acknowledging God’s blessings and goodness in your life. Gratitude helps keep your focus on spiritual rather than materialistic pursuits.

 

However, there are some pitfalls we need to avoid.

 

Þ   Materialism and Consumerism: Pursing wealth, possessions and status can distract from kingdom values, leading to a focus on temporary rather than eternal matters.

 

Þ   Business and Overcommitment: Excessive business can prevent you from prioritizing spiritual growth and maintaining a relationship with God.

 

Þ   Entertainment and Media: An overindulgence of entertainment, social media, or technology can consume time and attention, thereby diverting focus from spiritual priorities.

 

Þ   Negative Relationships: Surrounding yourself with individuals or influences that do not support or respect your faith journey can create distractions and challenges.

 

Þ   Worries and Anxiety: Allowing worry and anxiety about worldly matters to dominate your thoughts can overshadow trust in God’s provision and plans.

 

Þ   Self-centeredness: Focusing too much on self-interests can hinder serving others and working towards God’s greater purpose.

 

Þ   Complacency and Spiritual Apathy: Settling into a routine without actively pursuing growth in faith can lead to spiritual stagnation.

 

Illustration: Picture a traveler on a journey through a dense forest. He has a map given by a wise guide, instructing him to focus on the path for each day, rather than worrying about reaching the distant destination immediately. Each morning, the traveler checks the map for that day’s route and follows it diligently, trusting that the guide prepared the path. This daily orientation ensures he remains on course and doesn’t become overwhelmed by the vastness of the forest. As the days progress, the traveler realizes that by concentrating on today’s segment of the journey, he not only enjoys the beauty surrounding him but also rests peacefully each night, knowing the guide’s plan is perfect.

 

TIE-UP: Paul stated in Philippians 4:4, “rejoice in the Lord.” Then He said, “Rejoice in the Lord always.” Later, He stated it again, “Again I will say, rejoice.” We obey these commands only by trust in God’s providential provision, embrace His divine sovereignty, and meditate upon His amazing grace. Therefore, let us “rejoice in the Lord!”

 

TAKE-AWAY: As we embrace salvation through Jesus, our worries are met with His promises, presence, and power. We learn to rest in His live, draw strength from His Spirit and find peace knowing that our lives are in the hands of a loving Savior. This deep-seated assurance transforms how we face our concerns, teaching us to cast our anxieties on Him because He cares for us (1Peter 5:7).

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