"Food and Clothing Provided"

 N.T.#576 "Food and Clothing Provided"

June 24, 2025 

Luke 12-Part 4

This time of year the wildflowers are in bloom on our country road. The orange lilies and yellow black-eyed Susans, white daisies, tiny buttercups, pink wild roses, and white tiny violets. God clothes the land with His beauty for us to enjoy. (However, the purple flower on the thistle is not welcomed, for they spread in the field and are harmful to the cattle's eyes.)

In the parable about the barns and abundant crops, we learned the man was greedy. He was ready to sit back and enjoy his wealth, taking it easy, eating, drinking, and being merry. (verses 16-20) this man was a hoarder for himself with no thought about God or eternity. We know that wealth cannot secure one's salvation and eternity in heaven, but it can be used for kingdom good. I'm sure the listeners got the point Jesus was making.

Jesus went on to teach some profound teachings:

• Laying up treasure for our self does not makes us rich toward God. (verse 21) 
• Trust God for food and clothing and the soul's provision. Faith frees us from anxiety and worry caused by greed. Our Creator knows our needs and is able to meet them. We can do our part by working and planning, but leave it in His hands, following His directions.
• Consider the birds, for God feeds them. Consider the lilies, for God clothes them. We often spend too much time taking care of our bodies, spend too much money on lotions, sprays, perfumes, and name brand shoes, as well as clothing. That money could be used in mission work spreading the Gospel. (I'm not against looking our best, just not being too extravagant.)

LET IT GROW

But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. (verse 31)

Are we keeping God and His Word the center of our life? Thank you friends for joining me in Bible study. Life can be busy, yet we need to be grounded in our relationship with God.

Let me share how God has provided for a need of mine lately. I spent 4 hours each day last week at church putting up decorations for Vacation Bible School. (Except for Friday) Each evening my feet were aching so badly. I had struggled in finding my brand of shoes to purchase a new pair. Finally, I found them, but they were not going to arrive until Wednesday this week. I groaned. I prayed. Then, when I went to water my flowers on the front porch Thursday last week, there was my package of shoes. The heavenly Father came through for me, answered my prayers, met my need. He is so, so good!

Are you doing kingdom work? God will provide what you need. He has for me. We have to keep our focus on Him.

LET IT GO

                              ... of selfishness, greed, our needs.

Help us see the needs of others, Lord Jesus.