The trust of a follower of Jesus
by Pastor Glenn Crouch
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But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33a).
Read Matthew 6:25–34
This is a passage I need to hear continually. Jesus has no problem with us having sensible concerns or making good contingency plans. The problem is when those concerns turn into worry and anxiety that then seem to take us over. Added to this, many of us have health issues (both physical and mental) that make us anxious. You may find this passage challenging if you are already in a dark place. Please bear with me if you can.
Jesus asks us, as his followers, to put our trust in him and to rely on our Heavenly Father even when everything is falling down around us. Do this first – don’t try fixing things first, don’t try complaining about it first; instead, trust in Jesus.
In this passage, the first thing we are told to do is to seek his kingdom and his righteousness (verse 33). Hold onto Jesus as best you can, knowing he is far better at holding onto you. Rather than focusing on tomorrow, hold onto Jesus now. Give him your concerns and worries. Let him know what is freaking you out.
I frequently come back to the dad whose son is possessed, and the disciples have been unable to help. The dad says to Jesus, ‘I believe! Help my unbelief’ (Mark 9:24). Based on this, I often pray, ‘I trust you, Jesus; help my lack of trust – calm my anxious heart …’.
Loving Father, I hand to you all that I am anxious about. However, I have trouble letting go of my worries. Please help me. Keep my eyes focused on Jesus. Father, I also lift before you those I know who are struggling with depression, anxiety and the weight of this fallen world – grant them your comfort and peace. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Glenn is the pastor of St John’s Lutheran Church in Esperance and looks after St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kalgoorlie–Boulder, Western Australia. Glenn and Karen have been married since 1985. They have two grown sons and are enjoying regular video chats with their first grandchild.
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