THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Monday, August 28, 2023

Lord, in your Sermon on the Mount, the audience of mostly the poor and needy listened to your every word. They lived day to day, hoping to attain the basic necessities to survive. Their food, clothing, and shelter wasn’t guaranteed for tomorrow. You recognized their physical needs led to emotional and spiritual needs as well. In that culture, many felt unloved, disrespected, and abused. But you are full of compassion and saw them differently. They were lost sheep, without a shepherd—and without hope.

Jesus, you became their hope, their good shepherd. You assured them, “Don’t worry about what will we eat? … drink? … wear? … your heavenly Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God first … live righteously, and he will give you everything you need” (Matthew 6:31–33)

This same biblical precept is true for believers today. We all see what a broken mess our  world is. Uncertainty of the future consumes many to the point of becoming debilitating. How do we get beyond worrying about our basic needs? How do we conquer the fear going under that wants to dominate our psyche?

Like you said, Jesus, “Seek first [God’s] kingdom and [God’s] righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).

You call your followers to shift our focus from earthly wants, and focus instead, on seeking to be a part of your kingdom, the Kingdom of God.

If I shift my priorities from what I want to what you want, Jesus, you have promised to supply my needs. I can trust you will keep your word. In every situation, show me how to seek You and Your kingdom first. You know what I need.

So thankful you are a promise-keeper, Jesus. Amen.