The Birds and The Lilies

“God provided everything I have and perfectly chose it for me, my husband and my children.”

“Therefore do not be anxious, saying ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’” Matthew 6:31

I don’t know how many times I’ve worried about all the things my children need. Food (anyone else’s kids only want fruit?), clothes (why are tiny clothes so expensive?), social interaction, what school to send them to, what activities to put them in. It’s so much. 

Not all these things have a financial cost, but most do, and providing for these needs can be overwhelming and anxiety inducing. 

But Jesus promises that if we seek the kingdom of God first, God will provide. (verse 33). Does that mean He’ll make a way for us to buy mountains of berries or that huge house we want? No. It means that He knows what we need and will provide it (verse 32). 

He knows. 

Not us. Him. 

In my story, which may mirror yours, He provides what is best for my heart. For example, I know that if I'm given more finances to buy everything I want, I would have a hard time keeping my heart from loving money. It would be the same for my family. This was something I’ve learned from following and listening to God. He knows what I need better than I do.

What I do know, though, is that God provided everything I have and perfectly chose it for me, my husband and my children. There have been many times my family has had a need and God has provided for that need. Something as simple as “ugh, we’re almost out of diapers, I need to go to the store” and God sends a friend that says “My kid can’t wear this size anymore, do you want these?”. 

When you’re feeling anxious about providing for your children, remember God is going to provide what they need. If God feeds the birds, He’ll feed your family too. If God dresses the lilies, He’ll dress your family too. 

Put God first, make Him your focus, center your family around Him, and you’ll find every need you have taken care of.

Action Steps:

• If you have time today, read all this passage (Matthew 6:25-34). It holds so many insights into how God provides for us. 

• If this is something you struggle with, write “My Heavenly Father knows what I need” (adapted from verse 32) on a post-it and put it in a place you’ll see it often. When you need this reminder, stop and pray, asking God to remind you that He knows and provides for every need. Reflect on all He has done for you also. 

• If you want to dive a little deeper, ask Him to reveal to you something you’re asking for that your heart isn’t ready for. Ask Him to work in you and change your heart. 

Prayer: God, I ask that You provide everything my family needs whether it’s food, clothing, shelter or any one of the million other things we need for our days. I ask that if there is a desire of my heart that You know is not best to provide, close that door and change my heart. Thank You so much for everything You’ve done for my family. In Your mighty name I pray. Amen.

Written by Cathrine, a mom of 4 who needs more sleep (hint hint, God)