Topical Bible: Natural Life: Be not Over-Anxious to Provide for Its Wants

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In the Scriptures, the concept of natural life encompasses the physical existence and daily needs of human beings. While the Bible acknowledges the necessity of providing for one's basic needs, it also warns against excessive anxiety and preoccupation with material provisions. This balance is crucial for maintaining a life that is both spiritually and physically fulfilling.

Biblical Teaching on Anxiety and Provision

The teachings of Jesus Christ in the New Testament provide profound insights into the relationship between faith and the provision of natural needs. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the issue of anxiety over material needs. He instructs His followers not to be overly concerned about their lives, specifically what they will eat, drink, or wear. Jesus emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's provision:

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?" (Matthew 6:25).

Jesus uses the example of the birds of the air and the lilies of the field to illustrate God's care for His creation. He points out that if God provides for the birds and clothes the lilies, He will certainly care for His people, who are of much greater value:

"Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" (Matthew 6:26).

The Call to Seek First the Kingdom

The antidote to anxiety over natural life is found in prioritizing spiritual pursuits. Jesus calls His followers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, with the assurance that all necessary things will be added to them:

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33).

This teaching underscores the principle that when believers focus on their relationship with God and His purposes, their material needs will be met according to His will.

Trust in God's Provision

The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in his epistles, encouraging believers to trust in God's provision and to be content with what they have. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul writes:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6).

Paul's exhortation highlights the importance of prayer and gratitude as means to combat anxiety and to rely on God's faithfulness.

Old Testament Insights

The Old Testament also provides wisdom on the subject of natural life and reliance on God. The Book of Proverbs offers practical advice on the balance between diligence and trust in God's provision:

"Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to restrain yourself" (Proverbs 23:4).

This proverb warns against the relentless pursuit of wealth and encourages a life of moderation and trust in God's timing and provision.

Conclusion

The biblical perspective on natural life and its needs is one of balance and trust. While it is necessary to work and provide for oneself and one's family, the Scriptures caution against allowing these concerns to overshadow one's faith and spiritual priorities. By seeking God's kingdom first and trusting in His provision, believers can experience peace and contentment in their natural lives.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 6:25
Therefore I say to you, Take no thought for your life, what you shall eat, or what you shall drink; nor yet for your body, what you shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Counter-Reformation
... was a man of irreproachable character, not over anxious to promote ... When his demands
were not complied with he issued ... was a man of exemplary life whose greatest ...
/.../chapter iv the counter-reformation.htm