Matthew 6:25 - 34
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[e]?
28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:25 - 34
ReplyDeletequestions:
1. What is the line (if any) between gluttony and seeking out food that we enjoy?
2. Is this making any statement about fashion (or just about worrying about it)?
3. If we seek his kingdom first, will we really get all those things? Is prosperity teaching correct?
4. How far should we take not worrying about tomorrow? Does that mean we shouldn't even plan things?
For some general background that may help with answering the other questions, http://www.acts17-11.com/cares.html says:
ReplyDelete"To worry is to furtively plan for possible future contingencies, most of which are not likely to take place. The old King James rendered it as "take thought for the morrow". At its essence, to worry means to be caught up in the cares of this world. Jesus tells us not to.
Immediately we look at these words of Jesus, we find them the most revolutionary statement human ears ever listened to. 'Seek ye first the kingdom of God.' We argue in exactly the opposite way, even the most spiritually-minded of us--'But I must live; I must make so much money; I must be clothed; I must be fed.' The great concern of our lives is not the kingdom of God, but how we are to fit ourselves to live. Jesus reverses the order: Get rightly related to God first, maintain that as the great care of your life, and never put the concern of your care on the other things.
Note the implication: to worry, then, is to accuse God. By worrying we are saying either: 1) "God doesn't know", or 2) "God doesn't care".
Oswald Chambers: "'Take no thought...' Don't take the pressure of forethought upon yourself. It is not only wrong to worry, it is infidelity, because worrying means that we do not think that God can look after the practical details of our lives, and it is never anything else that worries us. Have you ever noticed what Jesus said would choke the word He puts in? The devil? No, the cares of this world. It is the little worries always. I will not trust where I cannot see. That is where infidelity begins. The only cure for infidelity is obedience to the Spirit."
More background info from http://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-modern.html:
ReplyDelete"Finally, and perhaps most destructively, we worship at the altar of self-aggrandizement or the fulfillment of the self to the exclusion of all others and their needs and desires. This manifests itself in self-indulgence through alcohol, drugs, and food. Those in affluent countries have unlimited access to alcohol, drugs (prescription drug use is at an all-time high, even among children), and food. Obesity rates in the U.S. have skyrocketed, and childhood diabetes brought on by overeating is epidemic. The self-control we so desperately need is spurned in our insatiable desire to eat, drink, and medicate more and more. We resist any effort to get us to curb our appetites, and we are determined to make ourselves the god of our lives. This has its origin in the Garden of Eden where Satan tempted Eve to eat of the tree with the words “you will be like God” (Genesis 3:5). This has been man’s desire ever since—to be god and, as we have seen, the worship of self is the basis of all modern idolatry.
All idolatry of self has at its core the three lusts found in 1 John 2:16: “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” If we are to escape modern idolatry, we have to admit that it is rampant and reject it in all its forms. It is not of God, but of Satan, and in it we will never find fulfillment. This is the great lie and the same one Satan has been telling since he first lied to Adam and Eve. Sadly, we are still falling for it. Even more sadly, many churches are propagating it in the preaching of the health, wealth, and prosperity gospel built on the idol of self-esteem. But we will never find happiness focusing on ourselves. Our hearts and minds must be centered on God and on others. This is why when asked what is the greatest commandment, Jesus replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37). When we love the Lord and others with everything that is in us, there will be no room in our hearts for idolatry."
http://blogs.faithlafayette.org/counseling/2011/03/food-the-body-and-idolatry/ says about food idolotry:
ReplyDelete"It is easy to understand how gluttony can be so common. In our society food is so readily available.
Another way food and the body becomes idolatrous is when we decide that being a good steward of our body equals fitting the ideal body type of our culture.
Another body image issue is its impact on the way others think about you. Since society tends to value being thin and looks down upon being overweight for some the issue of body image is about who the person can date, hang out with, or be viewed by others.
the idolatry is actually over control and food just happens to be the object of control.
My two cents on worrying about food:
ReplyDeleteIt's really interesting when google is so cluttered with other kinds of articles that I can't even find articles that address worrying about food. I keep finding diets, talking about unclean foods and all kinds of other things. But I can't find much about worrying about food.
I think that when this happens, I've hit upon something that particularly affects American Christians (this and money).
The first general article, I think, has the key to this. It said "To worry is to furtively plan for possible future contingencies, most of which are not likely to take place." When we think about our next meal a lot (unless you are in charge of meal planning - then it gets trickier), you probably are guilty of love/worry of food.
Confession: I tend to think about eating the same way that I think about gas stations on a road trip. I try to fill up as much as possible to make it to the next station. I don't like the drop in blood sugar and energy when I get really hungry, so I try to avoid it, even if it means that I will be carrying extra. Some of my eating habits are driven by fear of not making it to the next meal and planning around that happening.
More way of worrying about food include:
Delete1. Grazing. Get a little more while you can. Never pass up an opportunity to eat because you might not get another.
2. Self-indulgence. Eat good stuff whenever you can, because this might be the last time you get something this good. Never pass up an opportunity to eat something you might enjoy.
http://www.gbs.edu/revivalist/0203_clothesiwear.shtml says about clothing:
ReplyDeleteBefore I offer this list of Biblical principles, let me preface them with some statements that are drawn from a logical study of God’s viewpoint on the subject.
(1) God speaks through basic principles rather than rules when it comes to what we wear.
(2) These principles are given in the context of Christian growth rather than as evidence of conversion.
(3) Individuals and churches are responsible to take these principles and apply them to their lives through personal convictions (individual) or collective convictions (churches).
(4) The desire to look nice is legitimate and God-given. An attractive and neat appearance is glorifying to God and an asset in all walks of life.
(5) The love of colors and variety is a God-given part of a person’s personality.
(6) Attention to current modes of dress is not necessarily wrong. (If so, we would have to adopt a uniform or settle on an antiquated style of dress.) If current practices and Christian principle disagree, we must side with Christian principle.
Biblical Principles for Dress
(1) The principle of covering the body rather than exposing it (1 Tim. 2:9). Clothes should never be worn that expose (see through), or unduly accentuate body parts or fail to cover our nakedness (Biblically, we are naked when we expose the torso or thigh).
(2) The principle to dress so as to identify the sexes rather than confuse them (Deut. 22:5).
(3) The principle of stressing the inward rather than the outward ( I Tim. 2:9; I Pet. 3:3). The Bible tells us our beauty should not depend on outward dress, but should flow from within from our spirit. This is not to minimize what we wear, but rather to give it a very special place. The way we dress should be a servant to us, used to reflect the grace of God within.
(4) The principle of moderation and simplicity rather than (p25)· ·(p21) ostentation and showiness (1 Timothy 2:8-10; 1 Pet. 3:3-4). Christians should seek to dress modestly and moderately. They should avoid an ostentatious display of riches, either to show off their social standing or to call attention to their person. All extremes should be avoided. In these two passages, the Bible clearly prohibits the ornamentation of the body. Christians should be careful that they do not invest an unreasonable amount in clothes.
(5) The principle to be transformed by the Word rather than to be conformed to the world (Rom. 12:2; 2 Cor. 6:11-71). The Bible is quite clear about separation, and that call to separation will ultimately find its way into the way we dress.
(6) The principle of propriety (Rom. 14:16). As a matter of good culture, some forms of clothing should not be worn in certain places and at certain times, yet they may be appropriate under other conditions.
As Christians, we are guided by the leadership of the Holy Spirit and a sincere desire to please God and obey His Word. All earnest Christians want to reflect God’s objectives and Biblical values in both their inner and outer person. We should be motivated at all times to communicate the message of godliness and holiness in our walk, talk, and spirit.
In evaluating this matter of what we wear, we should ask ourselves these two questions: First, “What do I want to say with my life?” Second, “Do the clothes I wear communicate the Biblical values by which I seek to live?”
There's a lot in the presumptions above that I disagree with. It does bring up talking points, though.
DeleteWhen should we be concerned about how we dress:
- Conforming to implied dress codes in the world (sales people wearing suits, etc).
- If our dress is causing others to fall into sin.
Otherwise, we are free to wear clothes that please us (just as we should feel free to eat food that we enjoy) - all assuming that we are engaging in using God's money (i.e. everything we have) wisely.
I really don't think its possible "honor God" with what we wear (although it is possible to dishonor God with our hearts and wear clothes that reflect that dishonor). In fact, I believe that getting the approval of others is such a strong motivator in us, it's probably best that we not wear anything that could get approval.
But that's my own opinion. It's tricky to me. It's like finances and eating. Now that I think about it, probably the truth is:
A person who is sold out to God doesn't worry about clothes, what they eat or money. The rest of us have more difficult choices. Do we pay a little more to eat at a good restaurant? How much more? Do we save money? How much money? Is it better to save money than to just squander it? Does saving teach us to live more frugally? How much should we spend on clothing? How many sets of clothes should we buy to fit into presumed society norms? How "name brand" should our clothing be? We don't want to look like we made our clothes in home school, do we?
For us (me, namely), all of those are really tough questions. For someone who is sold out to God, those questions never enter their minds, because the Holy Spirit really does provide everything for them. For us, making a clothing choice is our business. For the sold out, all choices are a matter of asking the Holy Spirit and doing what He says.
http://www.biblepages.net/io10.htm says concerning seeking the kingdom of God first:
ReplyDeleteAnd, as we all know, those disciples were not prospered while they lived here on Earth. Instead, they were persecuted, and many of them had to suffer and some were even killed. So, really what was Jesus saying to those disciples?
Luke 12:31 “But seek His kingdom, and these things will be provided for you. 32 Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Make money-bags for yourselves that won’t grow old, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
If you read that scripture-quote with care, you saw that in contrast to “prosperity theology”, Jesus told his disciples to sell their possessions and give the proceeds to the poor. They were not to be collecting earthly treasures but instead a heavenly one.
An important note: This does not in any way mean that believers of our day should sell all they have. The instruction recorded in Matthew 6:19–21 and Luke 12:33 was directed to Jesus’ personal disciples, people of the first century. What he said to them on that occasion, was connected to what relatively soon was to happen to them. Because of that, they had no need to heap up earthly savings. (The articles hg04.htm and ih12.htm have some notes on this.) – When it comes to things and people of our day, things are quite a bit different.
Indeed, the disciples were not promised that they would be given “all these things” during their earthly lives. They had to go through hardships and lack and suffering.
Thus, it is obvious that Jesus meant (Matthew 6:33 and Luke 12:31) that if and when those disciples made it to the Kingdom of God, then all their needs would be taken care of. Not during their earthly lives, but in the Kingdom.
So, when Jesus told his disciples to “seek” the Reign or Kingdom of God first and foremost, that was actually a truly lofty goal for them. And, in order to make it there, those disciples had to forsake earthly goals and plans and things.
But, of course, some of the things that Jesus said to those disciples, can be applied even in our day, at least to some part. For instance, it is clear that believers should not be heaping up huge riches for themselves, ignoring the needs of others. But, since our situation is very different from that of the saints in the first century, we should also in a responsible way plan for the present and future needs that we and our families have. Also: Believers should practise good works and in that way help even others, each according to one’s ability.
(This author claims that the sermon on the mount was addressed to the disciples, not us - but there are things we can take away from it).
Another article about seeking God first: http://www.preceptaustin.org/matthew_633-34.htm:
ReplyDeleteAre you a God seeking person? Do you really want to know? Ask a brother or sister in Christ? Or better yet ask an unsaved person who knows you. They many not know the Scriptures like you do but you may be surprised at their answer. If the answer surprises you and you discover others don't see you as a God seeker, consider Pastor Pritchard's five suggestions to stimulate your seeking first God's kingdom and His righteousness...
First, admit your need. You cannot change until you admit that you need to change. If you are happy the way you are, then I have nothing to do say to you. But if you are tired of turning banana peels into diesel fuel while there’s a hole in your boat, then pay attention because your life could be radically changed.
Second, cry out to God for help. Early on Sunday morning I met a man who said, “It happened 16 years ago today.” What happened? “Sixteen years ago my life hit rock bottom. Alcohol had destroyed me. My marriage was gone, my career was ruined, and my life was a wreck. I had tried everything the world had to offer and nothing seemed to make a difference. When I finally had nowhere else to turn, I cried out to Jesus. Sixteen years ago today, he heard my cry and changed my life.” That man was in our early worship service on Sunday. He is living proof of the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. He cried out and the Lord heard him and saved him from the pit of destruction. If you need the Lord, cry out to him today. Seek him with all your heart and you will find him.
Third, surround yourself with God-seeking people. You know who they are. God-seekers aren’t hard to spot. Find some friends who truly seek the Lord and glue yourself to them. Go where they go, do what they do. Follow their example. Eventually one of two things will happen. Either they will drive you nuts and you will leave them or they will rub off on you and you will become a God-seeker too.
Fourth, wait on the Lord. This is a hard discipline for most of us to practice. Our message to God is, “Give me patience, and give it to me right now!” We want spiritual maturity and we want it by 11:30 a.m. We’re not accustomed to waiting patiently on the Lord. But waiting has many positive benefits. The very act of waiting purifies our hearts and increases our longing to know the Lord intimately. As we wait and as we pray, we become like the deer panting for the water. Our souls grow hungry to know the Lord.
Fifth, spend time in fasting. I believe there is a direct connection between biblical fasting and seeking the Lord. For some, that might mean going without a meal once a week in order to wait on God. For others, it might mean going a day without a meal. The ancient discipline of biblical fasting can be practiced many different ways. I have found it beneficial to take a day a week and fast from sunrise to sundown. And on occasion I have fasted for several days at a time. Fasting slows us down, reorients our perspective, weans us away from our love of the world, and puts us in a spiritual position where we can seek God with fewer distractions. (If you would like instruction in this area, I highly recommend the book A Hunger for God by John Piper from Crossway Books.) (Ed note: A Hunger for God is available free online. Also see notes on fasting from Matthew 6:16-18)
The great mystic Thomas a Kempis (who wrote The Imitation of Christ) said, “Seek God, not happiness.” We have it all backwards. We seek happiness and hope to have God thrown in as a bonus. But we end up with neither. The paradox of the gospel is that when we truly seek God, we find him, and we get happiness (deep fulfillment, lasting joy, the abundant life) too. But it takes years for many of us to figure that out, and some of us never get it straight. To the very end, we pursue earthly happiness and our own agendas and we wonder why life leaves us frustrated and disillusioned.
My two cents:
ReplyDeleteThe last two questions are what do we get when we seek God's kingdom first and should we plan for tomorrow?
I think that the answer lies in walking in the Spirit. When we are walking in the Spirit (listening and responding to Him), everything changes. "All these things" change. We don't need money, food, a future - all of those needs fade. All that we want and need are God and His mission.
That goes for planning for tomorrow. When we see a retirement planning kit or a 401K form, if we are walking with God, we find out what He wants us to do and do it. We don't have to worry about it. The daily things we all do - taxes, pay bills, enroll our kids in soccor, save for college - on the outside they may all look the same. But our decision making process looks very different. When we are seeking God's kingdom first, we pay the bills as part of duties in God's kingdom - because that is God's will for us that day. If we are part of God's kingdom, the circumstances of this world no longer concern us.
If only we could! No more worry, no more planning for ourselves, no more trying to figure out how to make life work for ourselves.
The question is am I looking at this idealistically? Is it realistic that we will get there in this life? Some people have. Not many, but some. I want to become one of those people before I die. But I need to believe in Him with more than just my head. The first step is turning my mind and attention to Jesus - more and more until there's nothing else there. Jesus, I believe; help me overcome my unbelief.