Do not worry

Read Matthew 6:25-27

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We all get anxious about things and for some people anxiety issues are a serious problem. So when Jesus says, “Do not worry” (6:25,31,34) is he being unrealistic? Or is he pointing us to the key which will enable us to deal well with our worries, whatever shape or form they take?

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The first word of the section, “Therefore”, is an important link with the preceding verses about our true security. Laying up treasure in heaven gives us a perspective beyond this world which in fact provides us with a firm foundation for facing all the challenges and concerns of life in the here and now. We belong to our heavenly Father and therefore there is no need for us be afraid (26; 10:29-31; Heb.13:5-6).

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This doesn’t mean that we need give no forethought to tomorrow – even birds build nests and fly south for the winter! “Prudent provision for the future is right; wearing, corroding, self-tormenting anxiety is wrong” (Bp.Ryle). The key to peace of mind comes from the assurance that God cares for us and invites us to cast our anxiety on to him, because he is the rock on which our lives are built (1 Pet.5:7; Is.26:3-4). Out of that comes a “peace that passes all understanding” (Ph.4:6-7).