Matthew 6:31 - “Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’, ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’
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What does "Matthew 6:31" mean?
Matthew 6:31, "“Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’, ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’", is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, specifically addressing the issue of anxiety and worry. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"Therefore don't be anxious...": This is the central command. Jesus is directly telling his listeners (and readers) to resist the urge to be filled with anxiety or worry. The "therefore" connects this verse to the preceding verses where Jesus points out how God provides for the birds of the air and the lilies of the field.
"...saying, 'What will we eat?' 'What will we drink?' or, 'With what will we be clothed?'": These are specific examples of the kinds of anxieties that consume people. They represent the basic necessities of life: food, drink, and clothing. Jesus is highlighting the common and pervasive human tendency to worry about having enough of these things. These questions reflect a focus on material needs and a fear of lack.
In essence, the verse means:
Don't let worry dominate your thoughts and actions. Jesus is calling for a shift in perspective, from focusing on our worries to trusting in God's provision.
Your primary concern shouldn't be focused on acquiring material possessions or securing your basic needs. While these things are important, they shouldn't be the driving force behind your life.
Trust in God's provision. Jesus is preparing his listeners to let go of anxiety. The following verses (Matthew 6:32-34) reinforce this by stating that the Gentiles seek after these things, but that God knows our needs and will provide for those who seek His kingdom first.
Context and Interpretation:
This verse is not a call to laziness or irresponsibility. It's not saying we shouldn't work or plan for the future.
Instead, it is about prioritizing our relationship with God and trusting that He will provide for our needs.
It is about seeking God's kingdom and righteousness first (Matthew 6:33), and trusting that all these things (food, drink, clothing) will be added to us.
The verse encourages us to live in the present moment, focusing on serving God and others, rather than being consumed by worries about the future.
In short, Matthew 6:31 is a powerful reminder to trust in God's provision and not to let anxiety over material needs control our lives. It calls for a shift in priorities, placing God's kingdom first and trusting that He will take care of our needs.
Matthew 6:31 - “Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’, ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’
What does "Matthew 6:31" mean?
Matthew 6:31, "“Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’, ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’", is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, specifically addressing the issue of anxiety and worry. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"Therefore don't be anxious...": This is the central command. Jesus is directly telling his listeners (and readers) to resist the urge to be filled with anxiety or worry. The "therefore" connects this verse to the preceding verses where Jesus points out how God provides for the birds of the air and the lilies of the field.
"...saying, 'What will we eat?' 'What will we drink?' or, 'With what will we be clothed?'": These are specific examples of the kinds of anxieties that consume people. They represent the basic necessities of life: food, drink, and clothing. Jesus is highlighting the common and pervasive human tendency to worry about having enough of these things. These questions reflect a focus on material needs and a fear of lack.
In essence, the verse means:
Don't let worry dominate your thoughts and actions. Jesus is calling for a shift in perspective, from focusing on our worries to trusting in God's provision.
Your primary concern shouldn't be focused on acquiring material possessions or securing your basic needs. While these things are important, they shouldn't be the driving force behind your life.
Trust in God's provision. Jesus is preparing his listeners to let go of anxiety. The following verses (Matthew 6:32-34) reinforce this by stating that the Gentiles seek after these things, but that God knows our needs and will provide for those who seek His kingdom first.
Context and Interpretation:
This verse is not a call to laziness or irresponsibility. It's not saying we shouldn't work or plan for the future.
Instead, it is about prioritizing our relationship with God and trusting that He will provide for our needs.
It is about seeking God's kingdom and righteousness first (Matthew 6:33), and trusting that all these things (food, drink, clothing) will be added to us.
The verse encourages us to live in the present moment, focusing on serving God and others, rather than being consumed by worries about the future.
In short, Matthew 6:31 is a powerful reminder to trust in God's provision and not to let anxiety over material needs control our lives. It calls for a shift in priorities, placing God's kingdom first and trusting that He will take care of our needs.