Living in the More Than
In this week's sermon, Martin O’Brien guided us through Matthew 6, urging us to live in the "more than" and to release our anxieties over earthly matters. His message challenged us to examine our lives and our faith in God's provision.
25 “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? 27 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?
28 “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, 29 yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. 30 And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?
31 “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God[e] above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
34 “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Matthew 6:25-34 NLT
Key Points:
1. Living Without Worry:
- Jesus teaches us not to worry about our daily needs—food, drink, clothing—by pointing to God's care for nature (birds and lilies) as evidence of His provision for us.
- Worrying, derived from the Greek word *merimna* (to be anxious or careful), is unproductive and harmful.
2. Seven Reasons Not to Worry (Life Application Study Bible):
- God, who created life, can be trusted with its details (v. 25).
- Worrying about the future distracts us from the present (v. 26).
- Worrying is more harmful than helpful (v. 27).
- God cares for those who depend on Him.
- Worrying demonstrates a lack of faith and understanding of God.
- It prevents us from pursuing God's purposes.
- Focusing on one day at a time helps avoid being overwhelmed.
3. Jesus’ Questions to Reflect On:
- Isn't life more than food and the body more than clothing?
- Aren't we more valuable to God than birds?
- Can worrying add a single moment to our lives?
- Why do we have so little faith?
4. Living in the "More Than":
- Jesus declares we are more than, more precious, and more valuable.
- We should trust in God's provision rather than be consumed by worries.
- Philippians 4 teaches us to pray, believe, and not worry.
5. Treasure in Heaven vs. Earth:
- Worrying about earthly needs shows where our treasure lies.
- Believers should store treasures in heaven, not on earth.
6. Faith and Trust:
- The Greek term *mikri pisti* (little faith) signifies a lack of confidence in God's provision.
- Jesus calls us to seek the Kingdom of God above all else and trust that God will meet our needs.
Application:
- Daily Dependence: Focus on today and trust God for tomorrow.
- Prayer and Faith: Replace worry with prayer and belief in God’s faithfulness.
- Kingdom Focus: Prioritise God's kingdom and righteousness, confident that He will provide.
Scriptural Reinforcement:
- Matthew 6:34: Do not worry about tomorrow; each day has enough trouble of its own.
- Lamentations 3:22-23: God’s mercies are new every morning.
- Isaiah 33:2: God is our strength and salvation daily.
Conclusion:
Martin encouraged us to live in the "more than" by trusting in God's daily provision and focusing on His kingdom. As we let go of earthly worries and place our confidence in Him, we embrace the abundant life He offers.
