A God wise enough to create me and the world I live in is wise enough to watch out for me.

Philip Yancey, Where Is God When It Hurts?

Our Hope

Matthew 6:25-30 (NLT)

²⁵ “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? ²⁶ Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? ²⁷ Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?

²⁸ “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, ²⁹ yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. ³⁰ And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

Our Insight

The argument began as soon as the cookie was brought into the dining room. “Can I have it?” one daughter asked. “What about me?!” said another. “That’s not fair!” shouted the third. Something made for delight was causing jealousy and disappointment instead. But then came the moment when the whole tray of cookies was brought into the room. Tension relaxed into smiles—there were plenty for all.

There are two ways to view the world around you. Most see a single cookie to compete for; Jesus saw an abundant and overflowing tray, generously provided by the Father. It was important to him that his friends saw the world this way, too, so he taught them what to look for: birds invited to the Father’s feast, flowers wearing royal robes. He invited them to be just a little more like these little creatures—living without fear, completely unconscious of need.

The lesson from the birds and flowers: It’s hard to be anxious when you’re so well provided for.

Our Prayer

Let’s spend our prayer time today doing exactly doing what Jesus asked his disciples to do: think about the birds and the flowers. In what ways has God shown you greater care than the birds? How has he provided for you more generously than the flowers? For each thing that comes to mind, thank him for his provision for you. Thank him that you are so much more valuable to him than flowers and birds. Then humbly ask him to meet your specific needs today.

Our Gratitude

Before closing this devotion, take a moment and bring to mind one thing—at this moment—that you are thankful for. And thank God for it.