Therefore: Priorities
Based on the September 1, 2024 message by Karl Ihfe
Why do you do the things you do? If you've never stopped to consider that question, I invite you to do it today. The answer you come to will have far reaching implications in your life. I believe this question was one that Jesus cared about, and one he often addressed in his teaching and preaching. If we're not clear on why we do what we do, we tend to chase after things we think will give meaning and purpose to our lives, things such as what we eat, what we wear, or how we secure our future. Turns out you don't need Jesus to chase these things, people who don't follow Jesus chase them all the time. But what if there was a better way? What if the key to breaking free from this futile pursuit is hidden in a single word: "Therefore"?
As we dive into this new series, I want us to explore the power of this simple conjunction. You see, "therefore" is more than just a word – it's a bridge that connects what comes before with what follows. It's a reminder that our actions and attitudes should flow from our beliefs and understanding.
The Power of "Therefore"
In the Bible, we find numerous instances of "therefore" that shape our faith and guide our actions. But perhaps the most profound use of this word comes from Jesus’ powerful Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus delivers a revolutionary message about worry and trust. He begins with these words:
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?" (Matthew 6:25)
Now, let's pause for a moment. What's the "therefore" there for? It's connecting Jesus' previous teachings about treasures in heaven and serving God alone with His instructions on worry. He's saying, "Because God is your treasure and your master, therefore, you don't need to worry."
The Joy of Jesus
As we consider these words, I want to ask you a question: Has it ever struck you what a happy person Jesus was? Despite the challenges He faced, Jesus lived with an incredible joy that stemmed from His trust in the Father. He didn't anxiously look ahead or get distracted by trivial concerns. Instead, He was radically present in each moment, fully engaging with the people around Him.
Imagine living with such freedom from worry that you could give your undivided attention to the person in front of you, without constantly checking your phone or thinking about your next appointment. That's the kind of life Jesus modeled and invites us to experience.
The Beauty of God's Provision
Jesus uses vivid imagery to illustrate God's care for us:
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" (Matthew 6:25-26)
He goes on to point out the lilies of the field, reminding us that if God clothes the grass so beautifully, how much more will He care for us? This isn't a call to irresponsibility, but an invitation to trust in a God who delights in providing for His children.
Seeking First the Kingdom
So, what's our response to this incredible promise? Jesus gives us clear direction:
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)
This is the heart of the matter. We have a father who loves us, cares for us, and wants to provide for us. Therefore, we're free to pursue His kingdom, His righteousness, which is simply "right living", the life that is truly life. When we prioritize God's kingdom – His rule and reign in our lives – everything else falls into place. It doesn't mean we won't face challenges, but it does mean we can face them with confidence in God's provision and purpose.
Putting It Into Practice
How can we live out this teaching in our daily lives? Here are some practical steps:
Identify your worries: Take a moment to write down what's causing you anxiety.
Reframe your perspective: For each worry, ask yourself, "How does God's promise of provision apply to this situation?"
Practice presence: When you're with others, put away distractions and give them your full attention, trusting God with your other concerns.
Seek the kingdom daily: Start each day by asking, "God, how can I prioritize your will in my life today?"
Celebrate God's faithfulness: At the end of each day, reflect on how God has provided for you, building your trust for tomorrow.
Remember, church, living without worry isn't about denying reality, avoiding responsibility, or simply trying harder. It begins by refocusing our number one priority. We serve a God who is good, generous, and deeply loves us. We can trust Him to provide for us, which allows us to put first things first, seeking His kingdom above all else. As we do we'll discover a life marked by joy, purpose, and freedom from worry.
So, therefore, don't worry about tomorrow. Instead, let's embrace each moment as a gift, trusting in the Father's care and seeking His kingdom in all we do.