Lillies and Birds

by Pastor Karen Runjo

Phil 4:6-8 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things”.

There is no mistake that these verses, both well-known in their own right, follow one another. Present your concerns to God, this will bring you peace – leaving them with our capable, caring God. Then get your thoughts off your concerns. Turn your thoughts intentionally to the good and hold them there. Who, by worrying can add a single hour to their life? (That would be – no one)

Matthew 6:25-34 in speaking about worrying, tells us to look around us to see God’s faithfulness displayed in nature; the birds of the air fed by God and the lilies of the field dressed in splendor. There is beauty in the care, concern and generosity of God. Because of who He is, He makes flowers beautiful – more than a basic necessity. As you see the generosity of God today in the richness of colour, texture and variety of nature today, may you grow in confidence in your Father in Heaven’s care - the God of ‘more than enough’.

Prayer thought / challenge:

Look today at some wild birds. Let God speak to you through their life. Notice the things of beauty in your natural surroundings. Let God’s nature be revealed to you today as you consider Him through their lens.