Joy of Provision

Psalm 67 Matthew 6:25-34

“Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear…for "your heavenly Father knows that you need them"

This morning, I am claiming Jesus' promise of providing my needs as he assures me not to worry about what I will eat, drink, or wear, because God knows we need them, and He will provide them for us! Knowing fully that my heavenly father is providing all my needs is a source of incredible joy! This morning, as we focus on the joy of provision, I want you to relax, take a few minutes, and reflect on how God is providing for your needs, sometimes miraculously.

The scriptures are filled with stories about the joy that comes from God's provision. The Israelites experienced God's care when He provided them with manna and quail in the wilderness, sustaining them during their journey to the Promised Land. This divine nourishment was not only a source of joy but also a testament to God's love and care. The Psalms frequently express joy in response to God's provisions, like in Psalm 16:11, which connects joy with God’s presence and guidance.

In the New Testament, the theme of joy as a result of God's provision is further developed through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself embodies the ultimate expression of God's abundance, offering spiritual and eternal blessings to all who believe. In John 10:10, Jesus states, "I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness." This fullness of life is characterized by joy that transcends circumstances.

Jesus' teachings often highlight the joy that comes from trusting in God's provision. In our text, Jesus assures His followers of God's care, urging them not to worry about their needs, for "your heavenly Father knows that you need them" (Matthew 6:32). This assurance is a source of joy, as believers rest in the knowledge that God provides for their every need.

The early church experienced joy as a result of God's provision through the Holy Spirit. In Acts 2:46-47, the believers are described as "continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people." The joy of the early Christians directly resulted from the spiritual and communal provision they received from God.

The apostle Paul frequently speaks of joy in the context of God's abundant grace and provision. In Philippians 4:19 , he assures believers, "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." This promise of divine provision is a source of joy for the believer, reflecting the abundance of God's grace and care.

Jesus knew what really stole people’s joy when he said, Do not worry! Worry has multidimensional effects on people, as we see its impact on the following:

Physical health effects include high blood pressure, heart disease, headaches, nausea, insomnia, and fatigue. Mental health effects are linked to depression, which affects at least 25 million people and costs $15-35 billion. It can also damage self-esteem. Social effects can strain relationships, particularly in marriages, leading to a lonely mentality, and also disrupted productivity may result in job loss and potential substance abuse. Spiritual Effects consume our minds and weaken our witness for Christ, impacting our trust in God.

Research has helped us understand that our worries mainly revolve around comfort (food, clothing, and shelter), acceptance, and purpose in life. Jesus tells us this morning not to worry about these things because worry cannot extend our lives (Matthew 6:27) or change our circumstances (James 1). Trusting in God’s provision brings tremendous joy. Jesus suggests we engage in some holy bird watching, as seen in verse 26: “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” (Matthew 6:26). Of course, you are!

Worrying is unnecessary for Christians because God cares for His creation. Jesus compares our value to birds, emphasizing that if God provides for the lesser creatures, He will care for us too. Psalm 145:15 reminds us that God provides food at the right time. Birds don’t worry; they sing and seek what God has provided. This doesn’t mean we shouldn't work or plan for the future. Jesus encourages us not to worry. While birds gather food, they do so without anxiety.

Notice that Jesus says it is “your heavenly Father” who feeds them. We have a unique relationship with God, not because of anything we have done, but simply by trusting in Jesus for salvation. As Christians, God is our heavenly Father.

There’s an old poem that goes like this:

Said the robin to the sparrow: “I should really like to know

Why these anxious human beings rush about and worry so.”

Said the sparrow to the robin: “Friend, I think that it must be

That they have no heavenly Father, such as cares for you and me.”

The point is this: If you are a Christian, you do have a heavenly Father! And if your heavenly Father takes care of the birds, will he also not take care of you? Ultimately, it is God who provides. Worry is unnecessary for you as a Christian because God feeds the birds of the air, and you have a heavenly Father who takes care of your every need.

There is a very simple way to get rid of worry in your life. Seek God’s kingdom first, and all these things will be given to you as well. 1 Peter 5:6 says: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” And he does! If you are in Christ, you have a heavenly Father who knows what you need and has promised to take care of you. Worry is incompatible with faith. Put your trust in God and seek his kingdom first to enjoy God’s provision!