Luke 12:22-34

content/bible_journal/luke_12:22-34.md

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+title = "Luke 12:22–34"
+date = "2022-12-18"
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+
+### [Read the passage.](https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Lk12.22-34)
+
+Having reminded the people that earthly goods are not worth anything to them
+after they have died, Jesus continues the lesson by saying we should not be
+anxious about even our basic needs. The poor people of Jesus's day were a lot
+poorer than even most who consider themselves poor today. Finding enough food
+to eat for the day was often a struggle, and there were no government programs
+or charitable organizations to help people out. Into that environment, Jesus
+says don't worry about what you will eat or wear.
+
+Jesus explains why He says this in three ways. First, mere survival is not all
+there is to life. God wants you to do more with your life than to merely exist.
+Second, worry does not actually give you your food or clothing in the first
+place. In fact, worry and stress will shorten your life, the opposite of what
+we want it to do. Third, God is good and takes care of even the little animals
+and the short-lived grass, and He cares for you and your life even more. He
+knows you need food and clothing, shelter and relationships. He is faithful to
+provide for your needs, so be faithful to Him in return.
+
+Finally, Jesus exhorts His listeners to invest in the kingdom of God because
+the returns are eternal and cannot be lost, stolen, or worn out. Be generous
+with what you have now, because you won't get to keep it anyway.
+
+* * *
+
+Set our eyes on what is truly valuable, and help us live as good citizens of
+Your kingdom.