Anxious Thoughts
When we look at Jesus' teaching on anxiety in Matthew 6, we really must resist the urge to look at it as mere "words of comfort" - lofty thoughts that may or may not give guidance when we begin to feel anxious. We need to realize that this teaching is an imperative - a command: it begins with "do not". This is important because tied to this command not to be anxious is that oft quoted (sometimes out of context) verse, "Seek first the kingdom of God..." these two are connected! One positive, one negative. Don't be anxious, how? By seeking first God's kingdom! Now certainly that is much easier said than done. Just as we saw chapter 5 close with the words "be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." But here is the promise, "When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul." Ps. 94:19 (NASB).