Whiners Beware, Jesus Sees You

Isaiah 26:3-4 "The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace; because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord we have an everlasting Rock."

Sure, there are plenty of people for whom worry and anxiety over necessities in life are a daily struggle. But there are also those who take for granted God's provision because it just is always there and they do not worry about it. Trust is an issue for them as well. They take unbelief a step further - they don't just question God's provision; they complain about it. "I don't like that kind of food"; "I have nothing to wear"; "That tastes terrible"; "You don't have my brand of soft drink?"

Fear gives way to discontent, revealing a heart that is full of itself and ignorant to the fact that many go without. Theirs (or should I say ours, or mine) is the too-easy life of getting whatever they want, whenever they want it. And if you don't have the cash, it's not a problem, you can just swipe the card.

That kind of living is not the kind Jesus is talking about when He said "Do not be anxious for your life". He was referring to those who were doing, or about to do, without. He was dealing with needs, not wants; daily necessities, not luxuries. So what do Jesus' words in Matthew 6:25-34 have to say to us who seldom if ever have to wonder where our next meal comes from? To those whose biggest worry is not whether we'll have clothes to wear but more about getting the newest line of clothes or new cell phone on the first day they are out.

Maybe if we felt the need for the necessities of life a bit more we would get what Jesus is getting at. Maybe if we needed Him more we would want Him more. Maybe if we were seeking His rule in our lives more fully we wouldn't get ourselves into such messes. Maybe if we were wrapped up in Jesus' rulership and righteousness we'd appreciate the simple things in life - like playing with our kids and talking with a friend or helping someone who really needs our help. Maybe we'd want to pray and read God's Word so much nothing could keep us from it. Maybe if we didn't have so many diversions and distractions we'd cling to Jesus for dear life because we'd realize He is our life.

I need to remember this the next time I am tempted to whine about things not being how I like them or going the way I want. Jesus sees everything and everyone - and that is a sobering, and comforting, thought.