“Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Luke 12:27-32
This teaching of Christ’s is far from promoting laziness (“neither toil nor spin” applies to the lily, but I am still commanded to work responsibly) or teaching a prosperity gospel (Christ does not promise material luxury on earth). Rather, considering the relationship between the lily and its Creator leads to a right consideration of my needs and my Creator’s provision. Is my heart striving or grasping or worrying after my needs? ‘Your Father knows that you need them.’ Do I doubt my Father’s goodness? Do I doubt his ability to provide what I need? Do I doubt the truth of my promised inheritance in his eternal kingdom? ‘Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.’
thoughts and songs 