Another well-known passage about dealing with anxiety, fear, and worry, one that we have read before here, comes from the words of Jesus. So often His teaching warned about how wealth or the pursuit of wealth can keep people from God. The bottom line is if we think we can take care of ourselves, our pride will act like we don’t need Him. And that is never true.

Today, rather than repeating the passage, we’re going to break it into two reads. Here’s the first part of Christ’s words in Luke 12:22-28 … Regardless of how many times you may have heard this, listen through the lens of battling anxiety for you and your kids …

Listen to the words of Jesus

Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things? “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you.

What stood out to you as I read the words? As I often say here, pay attention to what jumps out at you from Scripture. That is one of the ways that God speaks to us, through His Word in the moment.

Verse 26 is key: And if worry can’t accomplish little things like feeding and clothing you, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?

Now listen to verses 29-32 …

And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.”

God doesn’t want us to be anxious or worry or carry burdens. He wants us to let Him take care of us, so we won’t feel all those toxic and negative emotions. What is one burden that you are carrying right now that, right now in your mind, you can visualize yourself giving over to Jesus?

Let’s pray together: “Heavenly Father, I confess to You that my worrying hasn’t accomplished anything, ever, little or big. Help me to trust that You can and will meet me and my kids’ needs. We just need to look to You. As above, so below.”