“And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith!” Matthew 6:28-30 (NASB)
I remember back to primary school where we had a nature table. Each child was encouraged to go foraging for wildflowers and present their specimens to the class. Living in the countryside I was spoilt for choice. Jesus draws our attention to these wildflowers. The verb “observe” is a strong word. It means more than just a mere casual glance. It means to ‘really look’ and wonder at the intricate and delicate construction of petals and leaves.
In essence Jesus is saying, “Have you ever seen a worried lily? Of course not. God provides every necessity for their existence and they want for nothing. They grow and are clothed by God while simply resting and basking in the sunshine of God’s love. And when God clothes them, they look even more glorious than King Solomon, the richest king who ever lived.”
Life can be overwhelming at times, especially in today’s ever-increasing political and economic uncertainty. But Jesus points out that worry is futile; it is a waste of time and accomplishes nothing.
“And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life”. Matthew 6:27 (ESV)
Trust God to meet your needs. He will sustain you. Focus on the flora and fauna around you today and learn the lesson of divine dependence in every detail. If God is concerned with a flower, how much more concerned is God for His people?
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)