The Worry That Follows Us

Worry is a shadow that seems to follow us everywhere. It shows up when bills are due, when the doctor calls with test results, when our children step into an uncertain world, or when tomorrow feels too heavy to carry.

Jesus knew this about us. That’s why in Matthew 6, He spoke directly to our anxious hearts. He didn’t dismiss our concerns as silly or small—He reminded us that the God who clothes the lilies and feeds the sparrows can be trusted with the details of our lives.

Why We Worry

At its root, worry often grows from two soil conditions: fear of the unknown and desire for control. We worry because we can’t see how tomorrow will unfold. We want certainty, but life rarely offers it.

Even the disciples struggled with this. They worried about storms on the sea, about where they would find food, about who was greatest among them. Worry isn’t a modern problem—it’s a human one.

And yet, Jesus calls us to live differently. Not because the problems disappear, but because we have a Father who knows our needs before we even ask.

Look at the Birds, Look at the Lilies

Jesus points us to creation as a living sermon:

• Birds of the air — They don’t plant or harvest, yet God feeds them daily.
• Lilies of the field — They don’t labor or spin, yet they are dressed more beautifully than Solomon in all his splendor.

The message? If God cares for birds and flowers, how much more will He care for His children? Worry shrinks our vision. Faith lifts our eyes to a God who provides.

The Cost of Worry

Worry drains us but never delivers. Jesus asked, “Which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?” (Matthew 6:27). The truth is, worry doesn’t add—it subtracts.

• It steals our sleep.
• It robs us of joy in the present.
• It blurs our trust in God’s provision.

Worry doesn’t change tomorrow—it only weakens today.

Seeking First the Kingdom

Jesus doesn’t just tell us what not to do; He gives us something better to focus on:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

The cure for worry isn’t to ignore life’s problems—it’s to shift our priorities. When we put God’s kingdom first, everything else finds its place. Provision, guidance, peace—these flow from the Father who delights in caring for His children.

Encouragement for the Worrier

Friend, Jesus’ words are as true today as when He first spoke them. Worry will always whisper, but faith speaks louder. You don’t have to carry tomorrow’s burdens today. God invites you to trade your worry for His peace.

So when anxiety rises, pause and look outside. See the birds. Notice the flowers. Let creation preach to you: If God cares for them, He cares for me too.