Don't Worry
Scripture Reading — Luke 12:13-34
“Do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear.”
Luke 12:22
As we begin our reading for today, Jesus tells a parable to show that it’s foolish to think our security is in our wealth—or in anything besides God. The story is often called the parable of the rich fool.
Jesus called the man in this parable a fool because he was not thankful for the harvest he received. Instead the man was more concerned about his lack of storage space. He thought that as long as he had possessions, he had it made.
But do riches guarantee security and a happy life? By not being rich toward God, the rich man was in the worst kind of poverty. He was a fool.
Jesus then encourages us not to worry. He says, “Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!” We are children of God. Does it make any sense for God’s children to worry about what they will eat or drink? “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?”
Here’s the bottom line. Jesus tells us to invest wisely. Jesus says, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” We must live for God first, trusting in him absolutely. We must throw away our worries and seek God first, rather than ourselves. (See also Matthew 6:19-34.)
Loving God, forgive us for not putting your kingdom before our own wants. Please guide us to do your will, as you provide us with all that we could ever need. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
About the author — Jang Ho Park
Jang Ho Park is a pastor in Tacoma, Washington. He and his wife, Jong Boon, have two sons.
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