January 19

Matthew 6:25-34 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

31Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34 "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.(Matthew 6:31-34)

Observation

How often have I seen these verses, particularly v 33? I have sang the verse over and over again! Yet, I find it difficult "not be anxious" about the necessities of life and also about TOMORROW. It is especially true today because of our current economic situations. And yet, how comforting to know that my "heavenly Father" knows my needs and has and will continue to add all these things for me. At first, it seemed that seeking FIRST the Kingdom of God and His righteousness is a condition upon which God provides our needs. So, if I don't seek first, then there is no provision???? That doesn't sound right! It's not the God that I know! Well, I believe it is the other way around. God already has provided for all things that I need and more. It's not that I need to do something to earn the provision, but rather that because it is already provided that I can seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness.

Application

So many instances, I feel being pulled away from "Seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness" because of the worries of today and tomorrow, whether it be necessities of life or events to take place. I realized that this is due to me having doubts (no matter how small or different names that I label it) on the ability of God to meet and to provide for my needs. I also realized that I am second guessing God thinking that God doesn't know my situation as well as I do, etc. WOW! This verses are perfect for me. I know God is faithful and keeps His promises. Therefore, I can SEEK FIRST the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, because He has already met my needs and have provided for me. Not only that, He is continually doing that in His perfect way and in His perfect timing.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for showing me the way to see how faithful and wonderful you are! Thank you for knowing my needs and providing for them. Help me to live seeking your Kingdom and righteousness first instead of worrying about things that you have already taken care of. Thank you for the peace of mind and confidence in you. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen!

--Ken Chong