“Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” (Matt. 6:27)
Expanded Passage: Matthew 6:25-27
Not long ago, for about two weeks straight, I’d spontaneously awaken in the early morning hours of the day with the phrase of a song playing on repeat in my mind. The regular rhythm of nightly stirrings seemed odd. I wasn’t worried or stressed about anything, and I hadn’t been listening to Maverick City’s song “Sufficient for Today” on any regular basis. However, the lyrics came pouring over me like godly whispers of love and promise, echoing what I found to be true about God—that his favor, mercy, and grace are never-ending, sufficient for every day.
In this section of Matthew 6, Jesus was speaking about a common reality of human life: worry. He knew that the basic needs of life are always before us. When finances are tight and resources are scarce, stress and worry are never far behind. Jesus took time to reassure his disciples that God is faithful. If he cared for even the smallest creatures of creation, surely his provision, grace, and favor would be extended to them too.
Worry is distracting, calling our attention to the problem and keeping us from putting God first. When worries come calling, listen for God’s whispers of love. Put him first, sharing your concerns with him instead of dwelling on what seems impossible. Look around and rehearse the ways God has been faithful and merciful to you.
Rest in God’s all-sufficient care for you today.
Angela Alvarado is the assistant editor for Communication and Administration of The Wesleyan Church and a graduate of Wesley Seminary, (IN).
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
