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“See how the lilies of the field grow,” Jesus advised (v. 28). Botanists count about 4,000 species in the lily family, about 100 of which are flowers. They are among the oldest cultivated plants in human history, having been grown for more than 5,000 years. They come in almost any color and are relatively easy to grow in spring, summer, or fall. Some of the better-known varieties today include the African Queen lily (orange), Cassandra lily (white with yellow stripes), Mona Lisa lily (soft pink), and stargazer lily (pink with white edges).
After reading today's passage, we can think of lilies as a symbol of the kingdom of God and of the wise simplicity of seeking His kingdom first. From this perspective, the opposite of simplicity is habitual worry (vv. 25-27). We should take a hint from the birds, which have all they need thanks to God's care for them. Since people are much more valuable to Him than birds, we can be even more sure that He'll provide for us. The implicit question here: Why would we waste our time chasing after things God will provide anyway? There's absolutely no point, since worrying can't improve anything.
Another object lesson from nature is provided by the lilies (vv. 28- 30). Like the birds, they neither fret nor strive, yet they have what they need. What's more, they're gorgeous without even trying, illustrating God's creative bounty. Since He does that for them and their existence is quite brief and relatively meaningless, we can be even more sure He'll provide all that we need and more.
The bottom line: God knows what we
need. If we spend our time anxiously
chasing after such things, we're just like
pagans, who know no better. Simplicity
understands that temporal things aren't
worth prioritizing or worrying about.
“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness,
and all these things will be given to
you as well” (v. 33).
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Are you worrying about tomorrow's needs and challenges? Today, take your anxieties to God in prayer. Psalm 55:22 promises: “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” 1 Peter 5:7 concurs: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” Today's verse reminds us that when we trust Him and put His priorities first in our lives, He is faithful to meet all our needs (cf. Phil. 4:19). If you struggle with worry, write these verses on note cards and read them when you feel anxious.
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