Matthew 6:34

Matthew 6:34 (ESV):

"Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."

Quote: "Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength." — Charles H. Spurgeon

Background: Spurgeon, known as the "Prince of Preachers," was a Reformed Baptist preacher in the 19th century. He emphasized the sovereignty of God, salvation through faith, and the practical application of scripture in daily life. Spurgeon shared this thought during a sermon in 1868 at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, emphasizing trust in God's provision.

Historical Setting and Author Background

The Gospel of Matthew was written by Matthew, also known as Levi, a tax collector turned disciple of Jesus. It was composed around AD 60-70 for a primarily Jewish audience to demonstrate Jesus as the Messiah and King prophesied in the Old Testament. This verse comes from the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), where Jesus teaches about the kingdom of God and righteous living.

The Roman Empire's socio-political climate created uncertainty and anxiety for Jewish communities under Roman rule. Jesus addressed these daily concerns, urging His followers to trust God's providence rather than worrying about uncontrollable futures.

Hebrew Word Origins and Pronunciations

While Matthew was written in Greek, Jesus likely spoke in Aramaic or Hebrew. Key terms in this verse relate to Old Testament principles:

• Anxious (דָּאַג, da'ag): Meaning to worry or to be in distress. The Hebrew conveys an inner turmoil that leads to distraction from faith in God.
• Tomorrow (מָחָר, machar): Represents the day to come but also symbolizes the unknown, requiring trust in God.
• Trouble (רָעָה, ra'ah): Signifies difficulty, evil, or adversity, connecting to trials allowed by God for spiritual growth.

Greek and Hebrew Meanings of Significant Terms

• Anxious (Greek: μεριμνάω, merimnao): To be divided or distracted, indicating a lack of trust in God.
• Tomorrow (Greek: αὔριον, aurion): The upcoming day, emphasizing the future's unpredictability.
• Trouble (Greek: κακία, kakia): Evil or adversity, used to highlight the burdens inherent to each day.

Major and Minor Themes

Major Themes:

1. Trust in God's Provision: Reliance on God's sovereignty removes the burden of unnecessary worry.
2. Present-Minded Living: God provides grace and strength sufficient for each day.

Minor Themes:

1. Stewardship of Time: Focusing on today aligns with God's purpose.
2. Faith over Fear: Anxiety distracts from God's promises and blessings.

Modern-Day Example of Applying This Verse and Takeaways for Modern Times

A man working to support his family may feel overwhelmed by financial concerns for the future. Applying this verse, he can prioritize trusting in God's daily provision instead of being paralyzed by long-term anxieties. Taking practical steps to plan without overburdening oneself aligns with faith.

Takeaway: Live today with diligence and faith, trusting that God holds tomorrow in His hands.

Connections to Other Biblical Passages

Old Testament Connections:

• Exodus 16:4-5: God provided manna daily, teaching Israel dependence on Him.
• Proverbs 27:1: "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring."

New Testament Connections:

• Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything…" echoes the teaching of Matthew 6:34.
• 1 Peter 5:7: "Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you."

Summary

Matthew 6:34 emphasizes reliance on God's provision for daily needs, freeing believers from unnecessary anxieties about the future. It challenges followers to shift focus from the uncertainties of life to trust in God's sufficiency and faithfulness.

Heavenly Father, thank You for being our provider and sustainer. Help us to live with faith and courage, trusting You with today's challenges and tomorrow's uncertainties. Guide The Men as leaders and stewards, teaching them to rely on Your grace daily. Strengthen their faith, so they can lead with peace and assurance in Your promises. In Jesus' name, Amen.