We worry about our health and our wealth. We worry about our children and our parents. We worry! It is second nature to us. We worry because we care. We care about ourselves and about others. Who can fault us for that?

But Jesus says, “Seek first [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Seeking God’s kingdom on earth is to love God, love neighbor, love self. Seeking God’s righteousness means ­accepting all three—accept that God is Lord, that our neighbors are his children too, and that we are loved by God. Accepting and acting on these three aspects of the two great commandments brings peace in our hearts. If everything we do is seen and lived through this lens, then we know that our days are in God’s hands.

So focus first on the God who loves you, and who cares for the people you love. Seek first his kingdom and his way of righteousness every day. “‘Seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,’ declares the Lord” (Jeremiah 29:13-14).