Day 41: Matthew 6:28-29
Devotional
READ MATTHEW 6:28-29
A few years ago, I was sitting on my balcony, watching the trees breathe. That’s all they were doing. Their leaves were blowing softly, the tallest trees were swaying, and as I think back to that moment now, I realize those trees weren’t really doing anything. They were standing still, yet they were fulfilling everything God created them to be. They provided food, shelter, and beauty. And God was doing everything necessary to provide for those trees.
Jesus explains this idea beautifully in Matthew 6. This whole section speaks about the power of seeking the kingdom of God, which includes recognizing His provision in our lives.
Let’s take a look at God’s provision for one of the richest men in the Bible, both in knowledge and in wealth. Solomon was David’s son and the king of Israel. In 1 Kings we see that one night, the Lord came to Solomon in a dream and asked what he wished the Lord would give him. Solomon asked for a wise and discerning mind. Because his request was humble, and not for riches or the death of his enemies, God granted him what he asked for—plus riches and honor. Solomon had everything he could ever need or want. He was fully provided for, with plenty to spare.
Jewish listeners would have known the stories of King Solomon and his extravagant wealth. Still, Jesus insisted in Matthew 6 that even the lilies, which do nothing to provide for themselves, possess a beauty that surpasses even Solomon’s.
God created the trees, the lilies, and us to trust and rely on Him. But far too often, I find myself trying to do things my own way. We live in a world where we have everything we need and most things we want, right at our fingertips. It can be hard to rely on God when we feel we can do it ourselves. But Jesus is telling us that the lilies, which rely on the Lord for daily provision, are more extravagant than the man who literally had it all. Today, I encourage you to wholeheartedly place your trust and confidence in the Lord.
A few years ago, I was sitting on my balcony, watching the trees breathe. That’s all they were doing. Their leaves were blowing softly, the tallest trees were swaying, and as I think back to that moment now, I realize those trees weren’t really doing anything. They were standing still, yet they were fulfilling everything God created them to be. They provided food, shelter, and beauty. And God was doing everything necessary to provide for those trees.
Jesus explains this idea beautifully in Matthew 6. This whole section speaks about the power of seeking the kingdom of God, which includes recognizing His provision in our lives.
Let’s take a look at God’s provision for one of the richest men in the Bible, both in knowledge and in wealth. Solomon was David’s son and the king of Israel. In 1 Kings we see that one night, the Lord came to Solomon in a dream and asked what he wished the Lord would give him. Solomon asked for a wise and discerning mind. Because his request was humble, and not for riches or the death of his enemies, God granted him what he asked for—plus riches and honor. Solomon had everything he could ever need or want. He was fully provided for, with plenty to spare.
Jewish listeners would have known the stories of King Solomon and his extravagant wealth. Still, Jesus insisted in Matthew 6 that even the lilies, which do nothing to provide for themselves, possess a beauty that surpasses even Solomon’s.
God created the trees, the lilies, and us to trust and rely on Him. But far too often, I find myself trying to do things my own way. We live in a world where we have everything we need and most things we want, right at our fingertips. It can be hard to rely on God when we feel we can do it ourselves. But Jesus is telling us that the lilies, which rely on the Lord for daily provision, are more extravagant than the man who literally had it all. Today, I encourage you to wholeheartedly place your trust and confidence in the Lord.
Personal Reflection
- In what areas of your life do you need to practice trust and rely on God for his provision
- Spend a few moments thanking God for his hand of provision in your life.
Posted in The Beginning Devotionals
2 Comments
So true that we have access to so much which gives us a false sense of security and self-sufficiency. Great reminder to rest in Him and trust His provision.
Matthew 6 is my main passage to go back to whenever I feel that I may not be provided for. It reminds me that, no matter my struggles, God will continue to provide for us as we seek to further His Kingdom!