Why worry?

Hands up all those who worry. Anyone not raising his/her hand is not telling the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. We all worry. There are those who always do things in set ways. they worry that if they don't then things will get out of control. There are those who can cope with big issues yet fret about small matters. There are those who are of a nervous disposition and worry about everything. There are the hypochondriacs who worry about their health all the time. There are those who worry because they like to worry.

To all these and everyone else Jesus says, "Think of the lilies: they neither spin nor weave; yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his splendour was not attired like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass, which is growing in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown on the stove, how much more will he clothe you! How little faith you have!"

What Jesus is saying here is that we should do our best and then leave the rest to God. He was not suggesting we should be reckless in our living. Our best is always expected of us and God takes care of the rest. Jesus uses the imagery of the wild flowers to demonstrate that such a lowly thing is cared for in detail. So it is obvious then that God will take care of us as we go about our business and his.

Jesus calls on us to forget the small worries and concentrate on the big business, that of seeking the Kingdom of God. It is this which will ensure our lives are worthwhile and full of satisfaction. I love the line in verse 32 of Luke's 12th Chapter. "Have no fear, little flock." He speaks to those around him and to us in a really fatherly way. He gives us the reassurance that God has chosen to give us the kingdom. Note that it is a gift! Now that really is some gift - the Kingdom of God, no less!

Jesus goes on to outline the approach we need to adopt. We are exhorted to concentrate on what we can give, not that which we can receive. If we think about what we can do for others and concentrate on that then everything else will fall into place in a natural fashion. Try it, it works! You will be pleasantly surprised when you discover how this works out in practice.

Most of the world worries about either gaining or losing money. Discount thoughts of money without being reckless and you will find that you have enough for the day. One of the older maxims I remember is the northern expression, "Happy is the man who knows he has the price of a pint of beer in his pocket!" Finally remember that there are no pockets in shrouds.