Inspired to Trust
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Key Verse: “He said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.” Selected Scripture: |
IN THE KEY VERSE OF OUR lesson, the meaning of the phrase ‘take no thought’ is not that of carelessness with regard to the necessities of this life, but rather that we should not have anxiety concerning them, whether it be the food we eat, clothing for the body, or even our overall physical health. As Jesus continues in the next verse, our life is “more than meat, and … more than raiment.” (Luke 12:23) He further shows the care God has for the birds of the air and the plants of the field. The ravens, Jesus says, do not sow or reap to be assured of their next meal, nor do they have a storehouse or barn, but rather they rely upon what God has graciously provided in the way of food and shelter. Likewise, the lilies of the field do not express anxiety concerning their need for proper sunlight, rain, and soil nutrients necessary for growth. God abundantly provides all these things through the wonderful workings of nature.—vss. 24,27
In contrast to the birds of the air and plants of the field, Jesus speaks of God’s greater care for us, “How much more are ye better than the fowls?” “If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?” (vss. 24,28) It is interesting to note the phrase ‘O ye of little faith.’ Jesus evidently is pointing out to us that if we have anxious, or unnecessary, care over the temporal things of life it is a sign of a lack of faith. If we truly believe that God is the all-wise Creator of the universe, and that he has a plan of salvation which includes all the families of the earth, and further that he has called us to have a share in the blessing of all mankind in Christ’s kingdom, then it would truly be a sign of a lack of faith to doubt God’s care over us with regard to the necessary things of daily life. To emphasize his point Jesus says, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?”—vss. 25,26, New International Version
The most important matters for the Lord’s consecrated people to be concerned about are those which pertain to our spiritual life and the making of our calling and election sure. If we are truly engaged in attaining unto these heavenly goals and aspirations, God will more than adequately overrule for the provision of our fleshly needs. “Seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. … For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (vss. 31,34) Our treasure must be laid in heaven, not upon earth. The primary treasure we are to lay up is the Christian character, summarized in the fruits of the Spirit—“Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance.” (Gal. 5:22,23) These are heavenly treasures because they last eternally, and will particularly be of use as the glorified church—head and body—teach and guide the world up the highway of holiness in the kingdom.
Yes, we must trust God in all life’s affairs, realizing his great love for us, summarized in these words of our lesson, “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”—Luke 12:32