As I started this new year, I kept on feeling prompted to think about the scripture about the lilies of the field. In Matthew 6:28 – 29 Jesus said to the people that they didn’t need to worry about their clothing, but that they should look at the lilies of the field which blooms without having to work in order to be clothed.

It is easy to fall into a trap where instead of focusing on Jesus and the purpose he has for us, we start to be anxious about our basic needs such as clothing. It seems to be a tactic that the devil uses to keep us occupied with worldly things instead of focusing on the Kingdom purpose God has for us. We are constantly tested in our faith for God’s provision.

If we read further, in Matthew 6:33 we read to:

• First seek the kingdom of God

• Live righteous lives before Him

And then all these other things (clothing, food and security) will be provided for us. Clearly our daily needs matter to God, but he doesn’t want us to focus on it 80% of the time. He knows we need those basic things in life, but wants us to focus on his agenda instead of our own.

How do we seek the Kingdom of God? How do we pursue the things God values amidst busy schedules and economic climates that seems to be against us?

All of us have desires in our hearts. The knowledge that we are called to a higher purpose. Something that energizes us and makes us excited for the day ahead. When we ask God to speak to us and lead us on his path of everlasting life through the power of the Holy Spirit, He will always lead you towards the purpose he has for you. You may still have to grow in your character and grow in your knowledge of God, but he knows exactly where you are and will prompt you in the right direction if you submit to his leading through the Holy Spirit.

How do you move forward? You keep your eyes on Jesus. When something seems to try and overwhelm you, intentionally turn your focus back to Jesus. Proverbs 10:3 says: “The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: But he casteth away the substance of the wicked.” (KJV) Trust in God for your provision. When you obey Him and seek his ways, you can be sure that he will provide all your needs in abundance for you and your family. God wants to bless us.

When we make Jesus our focus, we do everything for the glory of his name. We say with the angels and elders of heaven in Revelations 6:12 NKJV

“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain

To receive power and riches and wisdom,                 And strength and honor and glory and blessing!”

Let’s make 2024 all about Jesus. Let us spend time in his presence and learn how to cast our cares upon the Lord. Let us have ears to hear and hearts to receive all God has for us in Jesus’s name.

“Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing. Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:18 – 19 NKJV

With love

Catherina