
Genesis 15:1-6; Hebrews 11:1-16; Luke 12:22-34
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Does God already know? I chose not to expand this sentence because it applies to just about everything. Whether we’re talking about our personal struggles, the state of our world, a recent tragedy, or so on, the answer remains the same. In truth, God does know. He knows what happens in our life as well as throughout the world. God is infinitely aware of all that transpires on a daily basis.
But this is only half the story. For people will often follow up with another question, does God care? As many will posit, that God is indifferent to our world and the happenings within it. Even if God knows, because of all the evil in our world, many believe that God either doesn’t care or is unable to help us.
Yet, Jesus gives us a different answer. One that we really should take to heart if we desire to know God and what he thinks about us. As Jesus says, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on,” Luke 12:22. Jesus tells us not to worry, which is easier said than done. Worry is such a large part of our life on this earth because we all want to know that everything is cared for, that we won’t fall on hard times. But also consider, as Jesus says, “And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?” Luke 12:25-26. Worry, while rational at times, really doesn’t help us at all.
There’s no doubt that we are worrisome creatures. But we must understand what is at the center of our worries. Whether it’s our worry about a job, about school, about friends, money, or so on, it all boils down to our worries of death. Yes, our worries are grounded on the desire to avoid death as long as possible. We know that we’re mortal creatures who have a risk of death at any time.
But, doesn’t God know? Indeed, he does. And does God care? Well, yes! This is what Jesus shows us. God so cares for the ravens as he feeds them or the lilies of the field as he clothes them (Luke 12:24, 27). And if he cares for these things, how much more does he care for you? God who created the world still cares for all that he created. As Jesus says, “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom,” Luke 12:32. Worry is something we don’t need as Christians if we truly know God and his care for us. Indeed, God is pleased to give us food and clothes and all that we need for he has also given us Jesus to die for us on the cross that even death may not concern us. Yes, God knows all that we need and he is pleased to give you this and so much more by his grace in Jesus Christ!
Pastor Sorenson
Prayer:
Almighty and merciful God, it is by Your grace that we live as Your people who offer acceptable service. Grant that we may walk by faith, and not by sight, in the way that leads to eternal life; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen!