November 22, 2013

⁸ Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Matthew 6:8 (NIV)

³³ But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Matthew 6:33 (NIV) 

These two verses, especially 6:33, are often quoted stand alones; however without context one is left wondering 1.  who is the "them" we are not to be like and 2. what are "all these things" eluded to in verse 33?

The "them" we are not to be like are the "hypocrites" and "pagans" who babble when they pray and do good work for the public admiration it will engender. Not to defend the pagans, but sadly enough, there are many who fill a church pew each Sunday (many of those are most likely born again) who also babble prayers and expect praise for good works. This brings up a discussion I have had on more than one occasion. That is where is the line between sharing a praise in Sunday School about a conversation that lead to a profesion of faith and boasting that you were the one that had that conversation? When does sharing the good works God is doing in a ministry in which you are involved become a cry for public praise?

Verse 6 also highlights on of the many "head scratchers" for me.  If God knows what I need before I pray, and He is a God who provides His children with all their needs, then what is the purpose of prayer?  Will God withhold a need of we don't pray for it?  What if we don't know it is a need therefore we don't ask for it?  What if we are praying for the wrong thing, will God still provide us with the correct blessing?  I don't view these as "angels dancing on the head of a pin" questions, but basic prayer purpose questions. 

Verse 33 also needs to be read, quoted and understood in context.  The verses immediately prior to verse 33 discuss only clothing and food.  Nothing else is mentioned as a part of "all these other things".

³³ But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things (clothing and food) will be given to you as well. 

So let's look at the list:
1.  His Kingdom- check
2.  His righteousness- check
3.  Clothing- check
4.  Food- check
5.  Dream job- not on the list
6.  A mate-  not there either
7.  A nice house- nuh-uh
8.  A bass boat- Starting to get the picture?

How much faith is required to be satisfied with only items 1-4?  What depth of trust in and love for God must be present to sleep at night knowing that 1-4 are all God might choose to give us?

As I type this entry, I am hesitant to utter such a prayer of faith for fear God might hold me to it.  I say I trust Him.  I sing songs that profess complete faith.  But in the dark of night, when it is just Him and me, do I dare tell Him- clothing, food, Your kingdom and Your righteousness are all I really need?