Everyday Worries

Think of a time you stared at your bank account, wondering if it would stretch far enough. Or opened the fridge and wondered what to feed yourself or your family. Worrying about the basics—money, food, clothing, bills—has a way of stealing our peace. And Jesus knew that.

In Matthew 6, Jesus speaks to a crowd living in a subsistence culture. Most weren’t concerned with retirement plans or brand names—they were wondering what they’d eat tomorrow. So, when Jesus says, “Don’t worry,” he isn’t dismissing real needs. He’s inviting his listeners to trust the God who cares for every detail of creation, especially them.

Jesus points to birds flying overhead. They don’t plant crops or stress about storing up grain—yet God feeds them. Then he mentions flowers, dressed in beauty without ever spinning thread. His point? If God provides for birds and flowers, how much more will He provide for you, his child?

But Jesus doesn’t stop there. He gives a new focus: “Seek first the Kingdom of God.” Worry focuses on what we lack. Faith zooms out to see God’s care, provision, and presence. When we put God first, letting him be the thing we are focused on—not our anxiety, not our fears—we find freedom from the spiral of worry.

Does that mean the bills vanish overnight? We wish! But, no. It does mean you’re not carrying that weight alone. It means when “what ifs” pile up, you can trade them for “God will be with me.”

Reflect: What everyday worry is weighing on you right now—food, finances, family, relationships, work? How can you seek God first in the middle of it? It could be as simple as inviting him into your stress and asking for his help to carry your concerns.

Pray: God, you know what I need today. Help me trust that you’ll provide for me, even when I can’t see how.