Weekly Devotional

“So don’t worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you. Therefore don’t worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. – Matthew 6:31-34 

A traveler visited a rabbi and commented on the sparsity of his home: a bed, a chair, and a desk. In turn, the rabbi asked the visitor why he didn’t have more luggage. The traveler replied, “I’m just passing through.” The rabbi responded, “So am I.” 

What topic did Jesus cover (based on the number of verses) more than heaven and hell combined? Money. In the study our Avenue Young Adults just started, we’ve discovered that there are over 2,350 verses in the Bible about money. In fact, nearly half of Jesus’ parables are based on possessions. Why do you suppose that is? It’s because we’re concerned about the clothes we will wear and the food we will eat. We’re worried about our jobs that provide money, about inflation, deflation, gas prices, investments, retirement. I want what I deserve!  

But Jesus instructs us to trust Him like a little child. When it comes to money and our possessions, we tend to be more childish than childlike. We’re commanded (it’s not a suggestion) not to worry. I know, it’s easier said than done, but not doing so indicates a lack of belief in our Savior. Who is your master? God or money? Money cannot buy you contentment. Seek first the kingdom of God.  

Author: Dr. Paul Etter, Associate Pastor of Choral Worship & 55+ Ministries 

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