Grace Isn't Sold in Bulk (Matthew 6:34)

Therefore

Matthew 6:34 begins with "therefore," finishing Jesus' teaching that the Father knows what you need. Seek the kingdom first. "Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."

Grace comes daily

Mercies are new every morning, so you don't get them in bulk. Worrying about next week drags that trouble into today, when today's grace wasn't meant to cover it. It also distracts you from what God is doing right now.

Manna

In Exodus, Israel was told to gather only one day's manna. Anything extra spoiled. God was teaching them to trust Him one day at a time.

Planning isn't worrying

Proverbs praises planning. Make a budget and keep a calendar. The difference is ownership. Planning stewards what you've been given. Worry tries to control what you don't own. DeWayne called himself a recovering control freak.

A scripture ready

When worry starts, it usually shows up as a "what if." Have a verse ready to speak out loud, and a brother or sister you can call. DeWayne's go-to is Philippians 4:6-9.

Try this

• Write Matthew 6:34 or Philippians 4:6-7 in your phone's notes.
• Next time you catch a "what if," pray it, then put it down.