Biblical Answer

What does Jesus say about worry?

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses worry in Matthew 6:25-34. He begins by stating that worry is irrational, unproductive, and even pagan. Jesus teaches that God will supply physical needs for the follower who makes obedient discipleship their chief concern. He promises that from His standpoint, it is absolutely unreasonable for us to be anxious, worrying about how we will live. Jesus forbids worry three times in this passage, stating that we should not be anxious about our lives, our food, or our drink.

Jesus' teaching on worry is rooted in His sovereignty and provision. He reminds us that we are not in control, but rather He is the one who carries us and provides for us. He says, "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on" (Matthew 6:25). He encourages us to focus on the present moment and trust in His provision, rather than worrying about the future. Jesus also reminds us that we are not to seek food and drink, but rather to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33).

Jesus' teaching on worry is not a call to passivity or inaction, but rather to trust and obedience. He commands us to "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" (Matthew 6:33). This means that we are to prioritize our relationship with God and His kingdom above our own needs and desires. By doing so, we will experience peace and confidence in His provision and care for us. As Jesus says, "My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid" (John 14:27). This peace and confidence are available to us as we trust in Jesus and His teaching on worry.