How can we encourage others to rely on God rather than worry? Setting the Scene “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear.’” (Luke 12:22) Jesus’ Clear Command • “Do not worry” is not advice, it’s a directive from the Lord who knows all needs. • The command rests on His character: He is the faithful Creator, therefore worry is unnecessary and unwise. Why We Can Trust God Completely • He is Father (Luke 12:30) – He knows what we need before we ask. • He is Provider (Luke 12:24) – “Consider the ravens… and God feeds them.” If He feeds birds, He will feed His children. • He is Designer (Luke 12:27) – He clothes lilies better than Solomon; He will certainly clothe us. • He is Sovereign (Matthew 6:34) – Tomorrow is in His hands, freeing us to live faithfully today. Practical Ways to Encourage Others to Rely on God • Share Scripture aloud—let God’s own words replace anxious thoughts (Philippians 4:6-7). • Tell personal testimonies of answered prayer and timely provision. Real stories anchor truth. • Model calm dependence: when needs arise, pray first, plan next. Let others see peace in action. • Redirect conversations: move from “What if?” speculations to “God has said…” certainties. • Offer tangible help—sometimes removing a burden physically allows the heart to hear spiritual encouragement. • Celebrate small evidences of God’s care, building a habit of gratitude that crowds out worry. Additional Scriptures That Strengthen This Message • 1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” • Psalm 55:22 – “Cast your burden on the LORD and He will sustain you.” • Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace the mind that is stayed on You.” • Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” Living Examples to Point To • Abraham—trusted God for a son beyond natural possibility (Genesis 15; Romans 4:20-21). • Elijah—fed by ravens during famine (1 Kings 17:2-6). • Paul—content in plenty or want because Christ strengthened him (Philippians 4:12-13). Closing Takeaway Point hearts back to the unchanging Father. Remind fellow believers that if God cares for birds and grass, He surely cares for His own. As trust increases, worry withers, and a watching world gets to see the calm, steady confidence that only God can give. |
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