Beyond the Weekend: Do Not Worry
Guest Pastor Dan Lian shares a powerful message examining Jesus's teaching on worry in Matthew 6:25-33. We discover how worry has become common in our daily experience and how Jesus diagnoses the root causes of our worries. Through Jesus's imagery of birds and flowers, we see God's faithful provision and care for his children as a good Father. We're challenged to remember that we are seen and cared for by God and trust in his abundance. The message invites us to experience the freedom God intends as we seek his kingdom first and discover that worship and worry cannot coexist.
I Will Worship Him
Read: Matthew 6:33 Listen: Matthew 6
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33
After warning his listeners about the folly of worry, Jesus points them to the antidote: worship. Instead of living a life consumed by fear and worry, followers of Jesus are to set their gaze upon God and “seek first his kingdom and righteousness.” Such a way of life implies worshipping—focusing thoughts on God’s character, trusting him completely and living in obedience to him. Jesus knows that worship pushes out worry. This is the full life that Jesus calls his followers to live.
Our hearts tend to worship many things, like careers, skills, friends and achievements. But only God is worthy of our worship. Only he can bear the weight and responsibility of defining, delighting and directing us. Worry distorts our view of God and life in general. Worshipping God allows us to focus on the truth and find meaning for our lives. We were made for God and his purpose for our lives. So, rather than allow worry to consume us, we can bring our worries to God. He will redirect our hearts toward his good character and what he has done. As we turn to him, we find fulfillment in him alone, and our worries lessen.
TODAY: One of the best things to do when you’re in a season of worry is to slow down and worship God through songs about him. Music ingrains truth in our hearts and helps us recall it when we need it most. So, slow down and sing with Ada Bible Worship, “The Lord Will Provide.” As you sing, focus on this line: “Everything I need, my Father has it.
