January 11
"Look at the birds in the sky: They do not sow, or reap, or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you more valuable than they are? And which of you by worrying can add even one hour to his life? ... So then, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own." -Jesus in Matthew 6:26-27 & 34 (NET)
This time in a New Year seems to be a time of transition for many. Seasons of transition can also cause us to feel insecure. As we look into an unknown future we sometimes try making plans to cover any and all circumstances. Yet before putting any plan into action, ask yourself two vital questions: (1) Is your plan in harmony with God's desire for you to have the best in life? (2) Will your plans work under real-life conditions?
Planning for tomorrow can become time well spent. However, worrying about tomorrow is time wasted. Sometimes it's difficult to tell the difference. Careful planning is thinking ahead about goals, steps, and schedules, yet trusting in God's guidance. When done well, good planning helps us prosper and alleviates worry. Worriers, by contrast, are often trapped in fear and anxiety and therefore can find it difficult to fully trust in the goodness of God. Chronic worriers sometimes even find their fears can interfere with relationships with family, friends, or even God. Yet Jesus assures us in our scripture today that we are infinitely valuable and God's personal love and provision for us is absolute. Don't let worries about tomorrow affect your relationship with God and others today. Look at the birds outside your window feeding on the abundance God has provided in all creation. Remember that as valuable and beautiful as birds are, Jesus has said YOU are of much more value to God. There is no need to be anxious. God will provide all you need!
Prayer: Lord God, Today I give you my worry, anxiety, fears, stress, and weariness. Thank you for transforming my fear to faith and my anxiety to trust. Even as I now surrender my burdens to you, I praise you for who and what you are. Thank you for drawing closer to me every day. Amen.
Meditation For The Day: God's plans alter impossible to possible.
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)
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