DAY 3: Trusting His Providence

Matthew 6:31-32: “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.” (NIV)

Don’t worry…be anxious for nothing…fear not. These ideas are repeated numerous times throughout Scripture in connection to God’s promises, provision, and power. So why does it seem like it is so easy to be anxious and so hard to obtain peace? Have you ever felt that anxiety can come in an instant, while finding peace seems like it requires far more work and effort?

To be completely honest, ask yourself, do I trust the Source? Do I trust the promises, provision, and power of God? These verses in Matthew specifically contrast an anxiety found in those who don’t know God, compared with the assurance of Christians that God knows and will provide. The questions causing their anxiety are based on basic human needs--what they will eat, drink, or wear. Fair questions that anyone would wrestle with in times of great financial strain. But look at the difference.

“For the pagans run after all these things…” This implies an anxiousness; an effort that is a daily grind. The pagans, the people who don’t know God, are operating in isolation, while the people who do know God are operating in partnership with Him.

“...and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.” There are three powerful ideas communicated in this verse:

First, the language of your Father. This implies intimacy, a protector, an authority, and a provider.

The second is heavenly. This Father we can have an intimate relationship with is not of this world. He is not subject to anything of this world for He is above it. He is over it, He created it, and, therefore, He is supernatural as He operates and provides from heaven.

Third, He knows. He knows what you need, your anxieties, your past, and your future. He knows.

Those who do not know God have a reason to be anxious. You as a believer do not. Why? Because you have a Father who provides, who is not subject to anything of this world, and who is all-knowing. Therefore, you are not in this anxiety alone. Instead, you are in partnership with a loving Father who can release you from the stronghold of anxiety as you learn to surrender, trust, commit to stewardship, and walk in victory.

Take a moment to pray the following:

Dear Lord, forgive me as, sometimes, I may live my life as someone who does not know You. I know that anxiety is not about You. Thank You for being my heavenly Father. Thank You for watching over me, loving me, and providing my every need. Thank You for being over any circumstance I am facing in this world and You care. I declare that You will bring victory to my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.