Chapter 12c

vs 22 – 34

Yesterday we looked at a passage which can (and should) give us all the willies. But there’s a different way to look at the issue of wealth and the Christian, and it’s found right here, in the next few verses.

After warning us that the time spent seeking after wealth will ultimately wind up pointless and futile, Jesus then changes tack. Instead, he demonstrates that seeking such things is also UNNECESSARY.

Worrying and fussing is futile. This we know. We learn that lesson time and time again as part of our lives. And yet, so easily do we fall back into such patterns!

Jesus says here, so clearly – the very flowers of the field are ‘clothed in splendour’, without their ever worrying or caring. We can’t out-give God!

Does this mean that we’re not to work for a living? Of course not. It’s all about where our attention is meant to be.

Growing up, the song “Seek ye first” was popular among Christians. In that song we learned verse 31 by heart. But there’s a catch – we also lost much of its impact. As the language drifted, the phrase “Seek ye first the kingdom of God/ And His righteousness/ And all these things shall be added unto you” became less and less understandable.

That’s why I appreciate the message version – “Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.”

It’s all about where our attention is.

The irony of all this is that the topic on which I find it easiest to worry is my work for God! So this is something I really have to keep focused on. If I am to steep myself in God-reality, doing God’s work, surely I should be able to have faith in God’s ability and willingness to supply my needs!