32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.
Matthew 6:32 (ESV)
Lord, I know not what I ought to ask of Thee; Thou only knowest what I
need; Thou lovest me better than I know how to love myself. O Father! give
to Thy child that which he himself knows not how to ask. I dare not ask
either for crosses or consolations; I simply present myself before Thee; I
open my heart to Thee. Behold my needs which I know not myself; see, and do
according to Thy tender mercy. Smite, or heal; depress me, or raise me up;
I adore all Thy purposes without knowing them; I am silent; I offer myself
in sacrifice; I yield myself to Thee; I would have no other desire than to
accomplish Thy will. Teach me to pray; pray Thyself in me.
FRANÇOIS DE LA MOTHE FÉNELON.
In the verse from Matthew, Jesus was referring to the physical needs we have- food, clothing, etc. But I believe that it would be save to expand this verse to the social/emotional realm as well.
Both Gentiles and Jews alike need acceptance. Christians and Zen-Pagans crave affirmation. Protestants and Hindus seek contentment.
Jesus is telling his disciples, quit losing sleep about these things. Don't allow necessities to become the focus. Jesus goes on to tell his disciples, "33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." If God is our primary focus, He will meet our needs. If we strive to live by Christian principles, then the necessities will be met.
But here is where I experience some misgivings. "If, then". 'If" we seek and "then" ALL these things will be added. That is not always the case. Christians are homeless. Christians are killed. Christians are martyred. The rain falls no the just and unjust.
However, if Christ is truly talking basic needs, then perhaps it is more of a "always" type proposition. Could Kristi and I get by with just one income if needed? Sure. Could most Christians slash their spending in half if necessary? Most likely.
What is apparent is that we are to seek His kingdom, His will, His guidance before all else. If we are consistent, fervent, passionate about that, then we have little time for worry about the temporary.
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