06/08/2021
"Don't worry, be happy!" Back in the late '80's Bobby McFerrin wrote a little tune that on the face of it seems like good advice. In fact, doesn't the Bible say something like that, too? This graphic has the proof!
But that isn't really what this verse is saying, either in or out of context. On its own it simply reminds us to keep our focus on today. If we look at its context we find that it is part of a more complete thought about keeping our trials and tribulations in perspective.
The admonition to worry only about today isn't just about pacing ourselves. It is about not adding to our trouble by worrying about potentials and possibilities. We tend to worry about things that haven't happened and about things that are outside our control. God calls us to focus our minds and energies on what is happening right in front of us. He calls us not to be devoid of concern, but to be mindful of what is within our reach. To be content to work for Shalom where we are, not where we think we could/should be.
The verse before is the point of perspective for us. "Seek first the Kingdom of God". What are you seeking today? What are you looking to satisfy? What will be enough for you? Before this verse, Yeshua talks about all of the things that we consider to be the basics. Food. Clothing. Shelter. He asks a simple question: "Can you add one moment to your lifespan by worrying?" Well...can you?
What does it mean to "seek first the Kingdom of God"? First off, it means to make it the most important thing in your life: "seek first". Finding the Kingdom of God must be the paramount concern to you. Everything else in your life has meaning only in reference to it. That doesn't mean you seek it in exclusion of everything else, but that your understanding of the importance of everything else is in relation to the Kingdom of God.
What is the Kingdom of God? It can be found in a life wholly surrendered to God. Not partly...not tentatively...completely. A life devoted to ridding our lives of sin and helping our brothers and sisters to do the same. A life that seeks the best for our neighbor in every circumstance. A life that stays the course even when most of the people around you are going a different way. A life that judges our prophets by their fruit so we don't get distracted. A life of one who hears the Word of God and acts on it. Those are all from His words, not mine. Just read to the end of the Sermon on the Mount...it's all there.
But that isn't really what this verse is saying, either in or out of context. On its own, it simply reminds us to keep our focus on today. If we look at its context we find that it is part of a more complete thought about keeping our trials and tribulations in perspective.erstand them better.
Stay safe out there. Remember...we're all in this together!
