THE Antidote to Financial Worry

Given Jesus’ ensuing words in Luke 12, the disciples respond inwardly to His words about the rich fool and dangers of wealth with anxiety and fear about their own daily needs. Jesus then tells His disciples to stop being anxious about their daily bread. Why? For (1) life is more than possessions; (2) worry is not constructive in any way, shape, or form; and (3) the Heavenly Father - who nurtures birds and flowers - loves us even more and delights Himself to give us His own kingdom! If the Father delights to give us the kingdom, will He not also grant us daily bread? Jesus’ words here summon us to faith in His tender care and provision, which in turn loosens our grip on earthly possessions to bless others, which in turn lays up lasting treasures in heaven. In this way, one’s treasure in this life is revelatory of his heart – the center of human thought, feelings, and will in Hebraic thought. Our treasure, what we truly value most, determines what we do with our time, money, and resources. For followers of Jesus, faith – not financial worry – characterizes them as they seek His kingdom above all else.