Bible verses referenced
Matthew 6:25-34
25 "Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?"
26 "Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?"
27 "Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?"
28 "And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:"
29 "And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these."
30 "Wherefore, if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?"
31 "Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?"
32 "For after all these things do the Gentiles seek: for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye need all these things."
33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
34"Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."
Psalms 4:8
"I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety."
Romans 9:30
"What shall we say then? The Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness of faith."
Romans 8:32
"He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?"
Ephesians 1:3
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ."
2 Peter 1:3
"According to his divine power, hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through his knowledge, that hath called us to glory and virtue."
John 14:27
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
Proverbs 14:30
"A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones."
Colossians 3:15
"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful."
Galatians 5:22
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,"
Colossians 1:13
"Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:"
Luke 15
(Summary verse used about the prodigal son)
Teaching notes
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Call to "Take No Thought" (Matthew 6:25-34)
- Living in Grace under the New Covenant
- The Power of Righteousness through Faith
- Understanding God’s Provision
- The Role of Peace in Experiencing Grace
- Practical Insights on Restful Living
- 8. Conclusion
Introduction
Pastor Lenny's message, drawn from Matthew 6:25-34, emphasizes the call to release worry and embrace God’s peace and grace. Highlighting the transformative power of the New Covenant, he teaches how to live without anxiety and fully trust in God’s provision. This article expands on key points from the message, focusing on scriptural teachings, practical applications, and spiritual insights.
The Call to %22Take No Thought
Jesus' repeated command in Matthew 6 to "take no thought" underscores the importance of trusting in God’s provision. The emphasis on not worrying about food, clothing, or the future reveals God’s heart for His children:
– He cares for the birds of the air and the lilies of the field, yet we are of much greater value.
– Worry does not add to our lives; it hinders God’s blessings.
– We are called to focus on seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness, trusting Him to meet all other needs.
Living in Grace under the New Covenant
Pastor Lenny explains how the New Covenant of grace transforms our relationship with God. Unlike the old system of striving, we now rest in what has already been accomplished through Christ:
-Seeking the Kingdom: Colossians 1:13 confirms we have already been brought into the kingdom of God.
-Righteousness by Faith: Romans 9:30 reminds us that righteousness is attained through faith, not works.
-Freely Given Blessings: Romans 8:32 and Ephesians 1:3 affirm that all we need has been generously provided.
The Power of Righteousness through Faith
The righteousness we have in Christ sets us apart. Unlike the striving of the old covenant, we are declared righteous through faith. This righteousness empowers us to live boldly, free from fear and stress.
Understanding God’s Provision
God’s provision is complete and abundant:
– He has given all things for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).
– The example of the birds: They neither sow nor reap, yet they are fully cared for.
– Matthew 6:33: When we prioritize God’s kingdom, all other needs are met.
The Role of Peace in Experiencing Grace
Peace is the foundation for experiencing God’s grace. As Pastor Lenny teaches:
– John 14:27: Jesus leaves us peace, not as the world gives, but a divine peace that transcends circumstances.
– Proverbs 14:30: A tranquil heart promotes health and vitality.
– Colossians 3:15: Letting God’s peace rule in our hearts allows His grace to flow freely.
Practical Insights on Restful Living
Worry hinders grace: Stress and anxiety block the flow of God’s grace in our lives.
Grace through peace: As peace grows, so does the flow of grace.
Rejoice in God’s provision: Even trials and challenges are opportunities to trust God’s abundance.
Conclusion
Living in grace means fully trusting God’s provision and letting His peace rule our hearts. By focusing on God’s kingdom, resting in our righteousness through faith, and embracing peace, we can experience the fullness of His blessings.
FAQ
Q1: What does "take no thought" mean?
A1: It means not to worry or be anxious about life’s needs, trusting God to provide for every aspect of our lives as He does for birds and lilies.
Q2: How is the New Covenant different from the Old?
A2: Under the New Covenant, we no longer strive for righteousness or provision. Christ’s finished work grants us righteousness, and God’s grace freely provides all we need.
Q3: What role does peace play in experiencing grace?
A3: Peace is the channel through which God’s grace flows. As we rest in His peace, we allow His blessings to manifest fully in our lives.
Q4: How do I overcome worry and stress?
A4: Focus on God’s promises, meditate on scriptures like John 14:27 and Matthew 6:33, and allow His peace to rule your heart (Colossians 3:15).
Q5: What is the key takeaway from this message?
A5: Trust in God, live in His peace, and embrace the abundance of grace that flows when we rest in Him.