Do Not Be Anxious
Matthew 6:25–34 (ESV)

“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life...”

Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25–34 are both gentle and challenging. Spoken to a crowd of people who, like us, worried about the basics—what to eat, what to wear, how to survive—His command was clear: Do not be anxious.

But how? In a world filled with uncertainty, rising costs, and personal pressures, how do we stop ourselves from worrying?

Let’s walk through what Jesus actually says—and why His words still matter today.

1. Anxiety Doesn’t Add Anything

“And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?” (v. 27)

Worry makes us feel like we’re doing something productive. But it doesn’t extend our life. It doesn’t solve the problem. It just steals our peace. Jesus gently reminds us that anxiety does nothing to help—and in fact, it often makes things worse.

2. Look at the Birds and the Lilies

“Look at the birds of the air...Consider the lilies of the field…” (vv. 26, 28)

Jesus uses simple, everyday images to show us something profound: the same God who feeds the birds and clothes the flowers cares even more for you. These small details in creation are not neglected—and neither are you.

This isn’t about pretending your needs don’t matter. It’s about trusting that God knows them already and will provide, even when you can’t see how.

3. Your Heavenly Father Knows

“Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.” (v. 32)

God isn’t distant. He isn’t unaware. He knows what you need—physically, emotionally, spiritually. When we forget that, anxiety fills the gap. But when we remember His character—faithful, present, kind—we can begin to let go of the need to control everything ourselves.

4. Seek First the Kingdom

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (v. 33)

This is the turning point. Jesus doesn’t just tell us what not to do. He gives us a better pursuit. Instead of chasing security, status, or stuff—chase God. Make His priorities yours. When you put Him first, He takes care of the rest.

5. Grace for Today, Not Tomorrow

“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (v. 34)

God gives us daily bread—not weekly stockpiles. He provides grace for today’s troubles, not tomorrow’s what-ifs. When we try to carry all of our future burdens now, we break under the weight. Jesus invites us to live one day at a time, trusting Him with what’s next.

Final Thoughts

“Do not be anxious” is not a denial of difficulty. It’s an invitation to rest. Jesus is not telling us to be careless—He’s calling us to be confident in a faithful God.

So when anxiety starts to creep in, pause. Look at the birds. Consider the lilies. And remember: your Father knows. Your Father cares. And He’s never failed to provide.

One day at a time. One step of trust. One kingdom-first decision after another.

That’s how we stop being anxious—and start living free.