Worry is something we all deal with at some point in life. Whether it’s concerns about money, health, or what tomorrow might bring, anxiety can easily consume our thoughts and steal our peace.
Thankfully, Jesus spoke directly to this struggle in His Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 6:25-34, He shows us a better way to live and think.
His questions hold the key to overcoming worry and finding true peace.
Jesus starts by asking, “Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” (Matthew 6:25). Here, He reminds us of what really matters. Life is about more than food and clothing. God has given us life itself, which is far more valuable than the physical needs we tend to stress over. It’s easy to lose perspective and get caught up in worldly concerns, but we need to focus on the bigger picture—God’s priorities. That can be hard when you don’t have food, but look at the next point Jesus makes.
Then He asks, “Are ye not much better than they?” (Matthew 6:26). Jesus points to the birds, who don’t plant or store food, yet God takes care of them. If God provides for the birds, how much more will He provide for us, His children? This question serves as a comforting reminder of God’s care for us and our value in His eyes.
Next, He says, “Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?” (Matthew 6:27). This question reveals the truth about worry: it accomplishes nothing. No amount of anxiety can make us taller, extend our lives, or solve our problems. Worry doesn’t help; it only makes things worse. Jesus then draws our attention to the lilies of the field: “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin” (Matthew 6:28). These flowers don’t worry, yet God clothes them with incredible beauty. If He does this for flowers, how much more will He take care of us?
Through these questions, Jesus highlights some essential truths.
First, He shows us God’s sovereignty. God is in control of everything—from giving us life to providing for our smallest needs. When we worry, we forget that God is in control and that He has a plan for us.
Second, Jesus emphasizes our value to God. If He cares so much for birds and flowers, how much more does He care for those created in His image?
Third, Jesus exposes the silliness of worry. It doesn’t change anything or improve our lives.
Finally, He challenges us to choose faith over fear. In Matthew 6:33, He sums it up: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Understanding these truths is just the beginning. We must also apply them to our lives. First, we need to seek God’s kingdom above all else.
Start each day with prayer and Bible reading, focusing on God’s priorities rather than earthly concerns. Let His will guide your choices.
Second, trust in God’s care. He’s been there every step of the way and He will be there for you today. Philippians 4:19 reminds us, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” God knows our needs, and we can rely on Him to provide.
Third, replace worry with prayer and thanksgiving.. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Instead of letting anxiety fill your mind, take your concerns to God in prayer and thank Him for His faithfulness.
Anxiety may feel overwhelming, but Jesus offers the cure. When we reflect on His words, we’re reminded of God’s sovereignty, our worth to Him, and the futility of worry. As we replace fear with faith and focus on seeking God’s kingdom, we’ll find the peace and freedom from worry that only He can provide. The next time anxiety creeps in, remember these truths and trust in God’s constant care. His provision is perfect, and His peace is beyond anything we can imagine.
