Thursday, August 29, 2024

Listen to the Word

So do not worry, saying, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “What shall we wear?” For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.  (Matthew 6:31-32)

Jesus indicates that much of our worry comes from chasing the wrong things. We are running after the same things the world runs after. Our priorities have not yet been baptized. We are still caught with our neighbors in the game of what shall we eat/ what shall we wear/ what shall we drive/ what shall we invest/ what club should we join/ what prestigious job should we hold?

Running after these things inevitably leads to anxiety. It is impossible to focus on stuff and status and not worry, because these things can let you down. The fear of “what if” will always be in your mind. If you spend your energy chasing food, clothes, personal happiness, money, image, and other temporary things, don’t be surprised when you are chronically worried. Worry is the natural result of letting the temporary overshadow the timeless – of letting the everyday crowd out the eternal.

Live the Word

What do your worries reveal about what matters most to you? Ask God to help you arrange your priorities appropriately.