Foundations Week 32, Day 3

Scripture Read: Matthew 6
Title: Sermon on the Mount (Pt. 2)
H.E.A.R. 
(H) Highlight verse: "Therefore, I tell you, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself.  Sufficient for the day is its owntrouble. "  Matthew 6:34

(E) Explain:  Jesus continues his sermon is chapter seven as he covers a number of relevant issues of the day.  He first talks about giving with the right heart.  When we are to give we are to do it in humility and in secret.  We are not supposed to look for accolades or praise.  Jesus tells us that when we give, whether it's money, time or talent do it with a heart of praise to God and an act of service to those receiving your gift.  

Jesus then talks about our attitude of prayer as well.  He informs the disciples and his listeners that in our prayer we are to have the same modesty and humility in prayer as we do in giving.  Jesus tells those listening that when they pray, they should pray in secret and not be wordy.  He tells them not to show off when praying, but enter prayer with a heart of humility.  He then goes on and gives a model of prayer by introducing the Lord's prayer.  

The chapter closes out with Jesus' practical advice on worry and anxiety.  He tells the disciples not to be anxious about what food they will eat and what clothes to wear because God is in control of all things and he will take care of his children.  Jesus smacks us square in the face when he speaks about how useless it is to spend time worrying.  He says, "and which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?"  The obvious answer is none.  He gives us perspective, God cares about us and He will take care of us, so don't waste your time worrying about things you have no control over.

(A) Application:  This chapter has always spoken to me and it convicts me everytime I read it.  The message is so clear... Be humble, have a right heart with God when you give and pray, and most of all, don't be anxious o worry.  Should be simple right?  Unfortunately, not for me.  I wish I knew how much time I spend worrying or being anxious over things I have no control over.  

The stage of life that I am in right now, I find myself more anxious than ever.  I worry about getting a full-time ministry position.  I worry about work.  I worry about finances.  I worry about the well-being of my family, are they taken care of and well provided for?  I worry about the future.  I just plain worry a lot and I shouldn't.  I need to constantly remind myself of the words of Jesus.  He's going to take care of me.  He knows my every need before I even knew I had a need and he has taken care of it.  I just need to be reminded to trust him and know that he is able to meet every need and he is faithful to take care of my needs. 
   
(R) Respond: Will you join me in trusting God today?  Whatever you may be facing that is causing you to worry or be anxious, let's give it over to God.  He knows our needs snf he is trustworthy.