Scripture References: Matthew 6:25-34; Philippians 1:3-6; Romans 8:32
Intro: (Includes greeting from missionary Jeff Dixon). Welcome to this sermon focusing on Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:25-34 about anxiety. Speaker Tiffany Eklund shares her personal journey with worry and invites us to contend for the freedom Jesus offers from anxiety over daily needs.
Key Points:
- The Command & Kingdom Remedy: Jesus directly commands, "Do not be anxious" about necessities like food and clothing. The primary antidote He offers is to "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (v. 33), trusting our good and capable King.
- Life is More Than Material Things (v. 25): Worrying excessively about physical needs reveals a misplaced focus. True life—lasting joy, God's approval, eternal security—cannot be found in fleeting material things. Aim higher, for enjoyment of God Himself.
- Our Father Provides (vv. 26, 28-30): Jesus points to creation: God diligently feeds the birds and beautifully clothes the lilies. Since we are far more valuable to Him, we can trust His fatherly care. Recognize Him as the ultimate Source of all provision.
- Worry is Futile (v. 27): Anxiety accomplishes nothing positive; it cannot extend life or solve problems. It's wasted energy. Instead of anxious striving, practice bringing needs vulnerably to God in prayer—a truly fruitful endeavor.
- Focus on Today's Needs (v. 34): Worry often borrows tomorrow's potential problems without accessing God's provision for tomorrow. Jesus instructs us to trust God for today's needs and challenges, knowing He will provide grace for the future when it arrives.
- Live Differently Than the World (v. 32): Constant anxiety about material things marks those who don't know the Father's loving care. As His children, we're called to demonstrate trust, offering a different model to a watching world.
Conclusion: Reject the worldly narrative that insists you always need more. Embrace Jesus' invitation to live freely as a beloved child under the Father's trustworthy care. He proved His commitment by giving His Son (Rom 8:32); He won't fail in providing lesser things.
Call to Action: Intentionally seek God's kingdom and righteousness above all else. Combat worry by observing God's care in creation and recalling His faithfulness. Bring your needs—big and small—honestly to your Father. Limit inputs that fuel anxiety and comparison. Come to communion remembering God's ultimate provision in Christ.
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The Gospel of Matthew: Do Not Worry! (Matthew 6:25-34)
with Tiffany Aicklen
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