Anxiety and Unbelief. 4/2/23

Weekly Memory Verse: Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you." - 1 Peter 5:6-7

Sermon Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:4-8

-THIS SUNDAY'S SERMON-

Good morning, River Family!

I hope this email finds you well. Many years ago, I experienced my first official mission trip to Nicaragua. What a humbling experience that was...To this day, I remember how shell shocked I was when witnessing the living conditions of those precious people. From my worldly vantage point, these Christians had nothing. Their homes were barely held together with odd-shaped pieces of wood. their floors were nothing but dirt, they had no indoor plumbing, they had no vehicle(s), no savings account, no 401k, and their clothes and shoes were tattered. Yet, they were the most joyful Christians I have ever been around. They had no concern over their clothing, their living conditions, or where their next meal would come from. To be honest, I did not understand why (or, how) they had such joy, fulfillment, and rest, given their circumstances; and, why I lived in such anxiety, ungratefulness, and unbelief, given mine.

Here is what I have learned over the years: My view of God, radically impacts my view of self, my neighbor, my situation, and my worldview. That is, when my view of God is small, my view of self and situation become overwhelmingly grand (and, overwhelmingly so). When my view of God is big (that is, when it accords with Scripture), the lens in which I see myself, my neighbor, my situation, and the world around me, changes (and, for the better).

Why were the Christians in Nicaragua so anxiety free? Their eyes were firmly fixed on something (or, Someone, rather), Who was/is infinitely Sovereign, good, gracious, and glorious.

Lord willing, this Sunday we will consider Jesus' words in Matthew 6:25-34.

As you read, consider the following questions:

"Do not be anxious about your life" is so incredibly broad. Why would Jesus give such an all-encompassing command?

Why does Jesus direct the eyes of His audience to the world around them (birds and lilies)?

What are some appropriate applications of this passage?

In Grace, -Jp

Until He comes, having the mind of Christ, walk together in grace and truth.