Day: January 13, 2026

Genesis 25-26

Proverbs 13

Matthew 6

Devotion on Matthew 6 by Marcia Railton (IN)

The Sermon on the Mount continues in Matthew 6 with so much wisdom. At the end of the devotion yesterday, the last question suggested we look for anything useful in this chapter for Thinking Again – a challenge to consider how we can rethink our opinions and thoughts to be more inline with God’s. I found a few…

I should “think again” about my motives in giving, praying and fasting. (Do these – for all the right reasons.)

I should “think again” about the importance of forgiving others. (Do it, or my Heavenly Father will not forgive me of my sins!)

I should “think again” about what I truly value and prioritize. (My worldly stuff – ALL I own or wish I owned – is worthless. How can I focus instead on building up what really matters to God and has eternal value?)

I should “think again” about who or what I am actually serving. (Does my love, loyalty and life – both thoughts and actions- prove that I have made God the Master of my life?)

That thought leads perfectly into the next big “Think Again” – I should “think again” and see that I do not need to waste my life in worry. I love this passage! I need this passage, and just maybe you do, too – at least from time to time.

“Look at the birds of the sky” and “Consider the lilies of the field…” This is such wise advice from Jesus, for anytime, but especially when we are stuck in our worry. Stop looking at yourself and your little world of trouble. Look up. Look out. Watch nature. There are interesting studies on the benefits of being in nature (or even seeing a tree through the window) to lower cortisol (a stress regulating hormone) and depression. Yes, psychologists and scientists are right, nature is good and helpful. But, even better, is knowing and trusting the God who created it. He not only created it, but He continues to care for His creation – including creating and caring for you. That is what God’s Son is telling us in Matthew 6:25-34. Look up. Look out. See God.

What do you see when you see God?

If my God is wimpy, I will have a lot to worry about.

If my God is cold or heartless, I will have a lot to worry about.

If my God is clueless, I will have a lot to worry about.

But that is NOT my God!

My Father knows what I need. My Father cares for me. He values me. He sees me. He is able. He alone can take care of everything I truly need and so much more.

How do you see God? Are you allowing your worry to replace your faith in God?

See Him for who He really is! Seek Him first and replace all those worried thoughts. Think Again – do not worry!

Reflection Questions

1. If you are battling with worry take a little time and write out Jesus’ words from Matthew 6:25-34. For each sentence also try putting the same thought into your own words. What is Jesus saying to you?
2. What thoughts does God want you to be thinking? Is your worry replacing your trust in God. What does God want you to replace your worry with? (See Philippians 4:4-9) How can you help yourself more consistently think again?
3. Tell me about your God. Is He wimpy, cold or clueless? Is He your Master, really and truly? What do you know about Him? Do you trust Him? How will I know what you think about God by watching what you do and think and say?
4. What will it look like this week for you to “Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33)

PRAYER

Dear God, I praise You for You are God alone. You are the Creator and Sustainer. You are indeed strong and mighty, all-knowing and all-powerful. Yet, You still see and care for me. I thank you for your love and our history together, the way you have cared for me, and my loved ones, and those who came before me over and over – throughout time. Help me to see You clearly, Father, so I do not waste time worrying. May my focus be on You, Your Kingdom, and Your Righteousness. Help me live these words of wisdom from Your Son. In his name I pray to You. Amen.