Take No Thought

Matthew 6.31-33 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

At our house, we like to do some planning and thinking ahead. For example, we connected with a local rancher, and we purchase 200-250 pounds of (processed and packaged) beef at a time. Even though we have a large expenditure at the time, this saves us a lot of money in the long run because the price per pound is so much cheaper. We plan ahead for upcoming winter storms, making sure our larder is sufficient, our heating system is cleaned and in proper working order, and that we have the resources we might need, such as shovels, snow blower, ice melt, and outdoor clothing.

Do these plans thwart God’s command to give no thought for the morrow? I think not. Let me explain.

The Greek translations tell us not to be anxious, saying (insert worried tone and wringing of hands) what shall we eat or drink or wear.

How many times does God tell us to fear not? We are not to be anxious about God’s provisions, because He will provide. It is our part, our responsibility, to obey.

How to obey?

As we go about our daily lives, we are to pay attention to God’s Word, promptings of His Spirit, and encouragement of other believers (aka, seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness). If, as we ponder God and His provision, we feel prompted to buy this or that, to put by, then we obey. This is one way God takes care of us: He prompts us to procure, or He gifts us through others.

So: as we are not to be anxious about the morrow, so we are not to be frivolous. God calls us to be good stewards of those things He provides. “Give no thought” does not translate to “fagett-aboud-it.” We are to be grateful for and conscientious about God’s gifts. Take heed, take care.

How do you take heed and take care? Do you garden and can your harvest? Do you knit, crochet, sew or quilt? Do you work with wood or other medium? Do you cook and bake? Do you check your house regularly to make sure all systems are maintained well?