Seek with Confidence the Good Things

We recognize that there are a number of threats in our day to God's people and His church. There are both external and internal enemies. On Monday, Peter LaBarbera presented the threat to our God given freedoms that the homosexual movement poses. Naively some Christians dismiss this, but of course they show themselves to be ignorant of history and the present reality. We seek to be aware of other external threats including the many unjust laws and policies of our federal and state governments. Internal threats would include the heresy and false teaching that is rampant throughout the visible church. We have tried to be alert on this as much as possible but it is difficult to keep up with the extent and variety of all these false teachings and doctrines. We have taken careful note especially of those teachings that undermine the doctrine of justification and the meaning of the sacraments. Another danger to the church in the US is the general ease of life that we have been able to enjoy, which in itself is not the problem, but it easily becomes a convenient excuse for spiritual laziness. When you are not truly seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness you are in a very dangerous place.
It is this last threat that I think is at least partially related to the section from Matthew's gospel that we consider this morning. Jesus earlier commanded, But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
Seek with Confidence the Good Things

1. Jesus Commands Perseverance in Wanting What Is Best, v. 7-8
2. Jesus Assures Us that Our Father Will Provide, v. 9-11