Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with GodSample

KITTENS IN A BASKET Coping with all the problems of our modern age is like putting kittens in a basket: just as you get one in, one pops out. It seems that when we get one problem solved, another confronts us. Sometimes we question if it all is worthwhile and are tempted to despair. God's Word speaks clearly to us at these times. Jesus tasted of humanity and experienced the daily problems that overwhelm us. In the Sermon on the Mount, He discussed them and gave us keys to solving them. First, He said not to worry because the heavenly Father knows our bodily needs. Then, He noted that we are not to fret continually because this does not help. He reminded us that God clothes the flowers of the field and cares for the birds of the air. He concluded: Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? (Matthew 6:30). We spend much of our time fretting and stewing about things the Master is fully aware of and has promised already to handle. If we seek His Kingdom first, He will provide. He does this in many ways, and one is to give us clear and confident minds so we can discover new ways to meet our own needs. The mind free from nagging doubts and fears is creative. Paul acquired this confidence so that even when things went wrong he could say: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8: 28).