Matthew 6:26
Verse
Context
Do Not Worry
25Therefore 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?26Look 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? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Behold the fowls of the air--in Mat 6:28, "observe well," and in Luk 12:24, "consider"--so as to learn wisdom from them. 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?--nobler in yourselves and dearer to God. The argument here is from the greater to the less; but how rich in detail! The brute creation--void of reason--are incapable of sowing, reaping, and storing: yet your heavenly Father suffers them not helplessly to perish, but sustains them without any of those processes. Will He see, then, His own children using all the means which reason dictates for procuring the things needful for the body--looking up to Himself at every step--and yet leave them to starve?
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which of you by taking thought,.... As Christ argued before, from the unnecessariness of anxious thoughts and cares, about the provisions of life; so here, from the unprofitableness of them; it being impossible for a man, with all his care and thought, to add one cubit unto his stature, or "to his age"; so the word is rendered, Joh 9:21 to the days of his life, he is so solicitous about; for a cubit may as well be applied to a man's age, as an "hand's breadth" is to his days, Psa 39:5. Nor is it so reasonable to think, that Christ should be speaking of making such an addition to a man's height; though that, to be sure, is an impossible thing: since the far greater part of Christ's hearers must be come to their full growth, and could not hope to have any addition made to their height; though they might hope to add to their days; much less such a monstrous one as that of a cubit, and which is a strong reason against the other sense of the word, and for this: for our Lord is speaking of something very small, which men cannot do; as appears from what Luke says, Luk 12:26 "If ye then be not able to do that which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?" Whereas, to add a cubit to a man's height, is a great deal: "the stature of a middling man (says (f) Bartenora) is three cubits.'' And to add one more, makes a large addition to his stature; but to apply this to a man's age, is a small matter, and yet is what men cannot do: the sense of the words is this, that no man, by all the care and thought he can make use of, is ever able to add one cubit, or the least measure to his days; he cannot lengthen out his life one year, one month, one day, one hour; no, not one moment. (f) In Misn. Erubim, c. 4. sect. 5. & Negaim, c. 13. sect. 11.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:26 Jesus’ logic progresses from lesser to greater: If the Father tends to birds (the lesser), and the disciple is far more valuable to him (the greater), then he will certainly tend to the disciples’ needs (see also 10:29-31).
Matthew 6:26
Do Not Worry
25Therefore 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?26Look 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? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Genesis) Genesis 1:6-8
By J. Vernon McGee2.8K01:36GenesisGEN 1:6GEN 1:14MAT 6:262CO 12:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the firmament as mentioned in the Bible. They explain that the firmament refers to the space or air between the waters above and below. The speaker mentions that there are three heavens mentioned in Scripture: the birds of heaven, the stars of heaven, and the third heaven where God dwells. They also mention that God divided the waters above from the waters below, creating the firmament. The sermon emphasizes the power and control of God over the elements, using examples of heavy rainfall in different locations to illustrate the abundance of water.
More Worth Then Birds (Compilation)
By Compilations2.5K02:35CompilationPSA 55:22MAT 6:26MAT 10:30LUK 12:7HEB 4:151PE 5:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the care and love that God has for His people. He highlights the fact that God knows every detail about us, even the number of hairs on our heads. The preacher emphasizes that if God cares for the birds and takes notice of every hair on our heads, He will not ignore our needs or turn His back on us. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's care and to not fear, even in times of crisis, because God has a purpose in everything He allows.
You Have to Love Jesus to Follow Him
By Carter Conlon2.3K56:45Loving JesusPSA 119:97MAT 6:26JHN 20:27JHN 21:16ACT 1:82CO 5:20HEB 10:23In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of preaching in a small church and witnessing sparrows pecking at the driveway. Through this observation, the preacher reflects on God's provision for even the smallest creatures and encourages the congregation to trust in God's provision for their own lives. The sermon emphasizes the importance of serving others and being led by the Spirit of God, even in difficult or uncomfortable situations. The preacher also highlights the significance of believing in God's commission and holding fast to faith, assuring the listeners that God will bring their journey to a successful conclusion.
Our Gracious God by Brain Brodersen
By Brian Brodersen1.3K33:53NUM 6:22PSA 29:11PSA 103:13PSA 139:1PRO 16:7ISA 26:3MAT 6:26PHP 4:7JAS 1:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of having the right concept of God for our spiritual well-being, highlighting God's desire to bless, keep, smile upon, be gracious, be attentive, and give peace to His people. It discusses the misrepresentation of God throughout history and the need to properly understand and represent God's character. The sermon encourages focusing on studying and understanding the nature and attributes of God to experience His peace and blessings in the tumultuous world we live in.
Job Chapter 40:
By Stan Ford1.0K43:26JOB 40:4MAT 6:26JHN 1:29REV 3:8REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher references several verses from the Bible, including Matthew 6:26, Revelation 3:8, and Revelation 22:20. He emphasizes the message of the Christian faith and highlights five simple truths that are brought forth by these verses. The preacher also talks about the importance of knowing Jesus Christ and surrendering to God's will. He concludes by discussing the story of Job and how it teaches humility before God.
(Genesis) 4 - Man and the Cultural Mandate
By S. Lewis Johnson1.0K54:18Cultural MandateGEN 1:1MAT 6:26MAT 10:29In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not being afraid of those who interpret the word of God differently. He encourages listeners to study the Bible diligently, as the Holy Spirit will guide them to the truthfulness of God's word. The speaker also highlights the simplicity of the most plausible interpretation of the Bible. He references Genesis 1:1 and 1:27, where God is described as creating the heavens and the earth, and creating man in His own image. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's guidance in fulfilling His purpose and for deliverance from sin through the Holy Spirit.
God Is a Good Father - 1.knowing the Father and Being Like Him
By Zac Poonen1.0K1:01:33MAT 5:48MAT 6:26LUK 6:36LUK 15:20HEB 12:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing God as a loving Father who cares for us deeply. It highlights the need to surrender all areas of our lives to Him, including our attitudes towards others, and to trust in His provision, discipline, and guidance. The speaker encourages a deep, intimate relationship with God as a Father who loves us unconditionally and desires our growth in Christlikeness.
God's Beauty in Creation: Micro Marvels
By Mike Bickle2234:41God's CreationMarvel of MicrocosmGEN 1:1JOB 12:7PSA 19:1PSA 104:24PSA 139:14ISA 40:26JER 32:17MAT 6:26ROM 1:19COL 1:16Mike Bickle emphasizes the intricate beauty of God's creation, particularly at the micro level, illustrating how every human cell and blade of grass contains a universe of complexity comparable to the vastness of the cosmos. He highlights that God's beauty is not only evident in the grand scale of creation but also in the minute details, encouraging believers to marvel at the divine artistry present in all aspects of life. Bickle asserts that understanding this beauty can draw us closer to God, as it reveals His character and invites us to respond with awe and worship. He references the internal and external witnesses of God through conscience and creation, affirming that all creation declares His glory and invites us to seek Him. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a deeper appreciation of the micro marvels of creation as a means to experience God's love and presence.
God's Zeal to Release Blessing (Joel 2:18-27)
By Mike Bickle2153:37Fasting and PrayerGod's BlessingsPSA 132:13ISA 34:2EZK 39:12JOL 2:18ZEC 1:14MAT 5:35MAT 6:26LUK 21:26ROM 2:4JAS 5:16Mike Bickle emphasizes God's desire to bless His people both physically and spiritually, as illustrated in Joel 2:18-27. He explains that fasting and prayer can invoke God's zeal for the land, leading to material blessings and spiritual outpourings. Bickle highlights the continuity between the blessings of the Millennial Kingdom and what believers can experience today, urging them to seek God's extravagant blessings in their lives. He reassures that God's heart for restoration and provision is unwavering, and that the faithful can expect pockets of mercy and blessing even in challenging times. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a wholehearted response to God through prayer and intercession to release His blessings in the present age.
Trust in the Lord Alone for All Your Needs
By Zac Poonen11KI 17:31KI 17:13MAT 6:261CO 1:27PHP 4:19Zac Poonen preaches about Elijah's obedience to God's commands, highlighting how Elijah initially depended on ravens for provision but was later taught to trust in the Lord alone. The story of Elijah being sent to Zarephath emphasizes God's unexpected ways of providing through a poor widow, teaching us to rely on God rather than human sources. Elijah's faith in God's promise led to the miraculous sustenance of the widow's flour and oil, showcasing God's faithfulness in times of need.
Behold, the Mountain Was Full of Horses And
By F.B. Meyer1Trust in GodDivine Protection2KI 6:17PSA 34:7PSA 46:1PSA 55:22ISA 26:3ISA 54:17MAT 6:26ROM 8:1PHP 4:61JN 3:20F.B. Meyer emphasizes the divine protection surrounding God's saints, illustrated by the vision of Elisha, where the mountains were full of horses and chariots of fire. He reassures believers that, although they may not see it, God's angelic hosts are always present, providing a shield against temptation, human hostility, and overwhelming cares. Meyer encourages the faithful to trust in God's strength and peace, asserting that He is greater than any challenge they face. He reminds them that God stands between them and their past, offering redemption and security. Ultimately, believers are called to rest in the Lord, knowing that He is their protector and provider.
The Undeniable Reality of God's Provision
By George Mueller0God's ProvisionFaith in PrayerEXO 16:4PSA 23:1PSA 37:25MAT 6:26MAT 7:7LUK 12:242CO 9:8PHP 4:19JAS 1:171PE 5:7George Mueller shares the undeniable reality of God's provision through a miraculous event at his orphanage, where he and Dr. A. T. Pierson prayed for breakfast despite having nothing in the house. Their faith was rewarded when an unknown benefactor, prompted by God, provided an abundance of food for two thousand children. This story illustrates the power of prayer and reliance on God for our needs, emphasizing that God is aware of our circumstances and responds in His perfect timing.
Trusting God for Daily Supplies
By George Mueller0Divine ProvisionFaithPSA 37:25PSA 68:5ISA 41:10MAT 6:26MAT 7:72CO 9:8PHP 4:19HEB 13:8JAS 1:61PE 5:7George Muller shares his journey of trusting God for daily supplies while caring for orphans, emphasizing the importance of prayer and faith in God's provision. Despite facing severe financial challenges and health issues, Muller learned to cast his burdens on the Lord, believing that God, as 'a father of the fatherless,' would meet every need. His unwavering faith led to miraculous provisions, often arriving just in time, reinforcing his conviction that God delights in answering the prayers of His children. Muller encourages believers to strengthen their faith through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and by allowing God to work in their lives. His experiences serve as a testament to God's faithfulness and the power of trusting Him in all circumstances.
Keeping Our Eyes on God's Greatness
By David Wilkerson0Trust in God's GreatnessGod's SovereigntyJOB 38:4PSA 19:1PSA 104:24ISA 40:26MAT 6:26ROM 1:20HEB 11:3David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of focusing on God's greatness, using the awe-inspiring experience of astronaut Charlie Duke as a metaphor for recognizing the Creator's power. He reflects on God's dialogue with Job, where God reveals His sovereignty over creation, urging Job to shift his perspective from his suffering to the majesty of God. Wilkerson highlights that by keeping our eyes on God's greatness, we can overcome fear and doubt that often cloud our hearts. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to trust in God's omnipotence and care for His creation.
His Workmanship (The Lord's Perfect Provision for His Own Masterpiece)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Our Identity in ChristGod's ProvisionPSA 139:14ISA 61:3MAT 6:26ROM 8:172CO 5:17EPH 2:10PHP 1:61TH 5:24JAS 1:21PE 2:9Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes that we are God's masterpiece, created for good works and sustained by His perfect provision. He illustrates this by comparing God's creation to a flower and the intricate care He provides for all creatures, highlighting that everything is made by His word. Waldvogel encourages believers to yield to God, allowing Him to shape us into His masterpiece, and to trust in His sufficiency during trials. He reminds us that the New Testament serves as God's guide for our lives, providing everything we need to fulfill His purpose. Ultimately, he calls for a deep relationship with Jesus, who is the source of our strength and identity.
Job 23:3
By Chuck Smith0Jesus as the Revelation of GodFinding GodJOB 23:3PSA 139:7ISA 41:10MAT 6:26MAT 11:28LUK 19:10JHN 14:6JHN 14:9ROM 1:20HEB 4:16Chuck Smith emphasizes Job's earnest search for God amidst his suffering, illustrating how trials can make God feel distant. Job's desire to find God and plead his case reflects a deep longing for strength and peace, even as he struggles to perceive God's presence. Smith draws parallels to Philip's experiences with Jesus, highlighting that seeing Jesus is akin to seeing the Father, as He embodies God's love, concern, and willingness to serve humanity. The sermon encourages those seeking God to look to Jesus, who invites us to come to Him as the Way and the Truth.
Plant a Tree
By David Wilkerson0Diligence in ServiceFaith in AdversityPSA 23:4ISA 40:15ISA 40:17MAT 6:26LUK 12:6EPH 3:20PHP 4:191TI 6:8David Wilkerson emphasizes that God does not promise a life free from suffering or worldly security, but instead offers peace and assurance for our souls. He reminds believers that despite the foreboding future, we need not fear because God is in control and knows the appointed time of Christ's return. Wilkerson encourages Christians to remain diligent in their work for God, living as if Christ could return at any moment, and to embody the spirit of planting seeds of faith and good works. He cites D.L. Moody's response about planting a tree as a metaphor for being proactive in our faith. Ultimately, he reassures us that God is attentive to our needs and fears, urging us to trust in His provision.
If There Were an Ant at the Door of Your Granary
By C.H. Spurgeon0God's ProvisionTrust in God's HelpPSA 34:10PSA 46:1ISA 41:14MAT 6:26JHN 14:13ROM 5:8EPH 1:4PHP 4:19HEB 13:51PE 5:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the assurance of God's help, reminding us that the Lord, our Redeemer, has already made great sacrifices for us, including His death and choosing us before the foundation of the world. He illustrates that just as it would be a small act to help an ant in need, so too is it a small thing for God to assist us in our troubles. Spurgeon encourages believers to bring their needs to God, who is more than capable of providing for them, as His resources are limitless. The message reassures us that we are never too insignificant for God's attention and support. Ultimately, the sermon calls us to trust in God's abundant provision and care.
The Lord My Husband
By Octavius Winslow0God as HusbandComfort in GriefEXO 22:22DEU 10:18PSA 68:5PSA 146:9ISA 54:5MAT 6:26ROM 8:282CO 1:31TI 5:5JAS 1:27Octavius Winslow emphasizes the profound relationship between God and the believer, particularly in the context of widowhood, where God is portrayed as the 'Husband' to those who have lost their earthly partners. He reassures that despite the deep grief and desolation that comes with such loss, God remains a faithful and loving portion, providing comfort and care. Winslow encourages widows to renew their love for Christ, trusting in His promises and recognizing that He will protect and provide for them and their children. The sermon highlights God's special regard for widows and His commitment to their well-being, urging them to embrace their divine relationship with Him. Ultimately, it is a call to find solace and joy in the Lord, who fills the void left by earthly loss.
Will He Deny You a Crust?
By Thomas Brooks0God's ProvisionTrust in God's FaithfulnessPSA 23:1PSA 37:25ISA 41:10MAT 6:26MAT 7:11LUK 12:24ROM 8:322CO 9:8PHP 4:191PE 5:7Thomas Brooks emphasizes the assurance of God's provision for His people, arguing that if God did not spare His own Son, He will certainly not deny us our basic needs. He reassures Christians that all of God's attributes, promises, and affections are engaged for their benefit, and thus they should not fear for their necessities. Brooks contrasts the care God provides even to His enemies with the abundant care He will provide for those who love Him, urging believers to trust in God's faithfulness. He highlights the shame of being troubled by worldly lacks when God has given us Himself as our greatest treasure. Ultimately, Brooks encourages Christians to recognize their immense spiritual wealth compared to the fleeting riches of the world.
Will You Not Trust Him for a Crumb?
By Thomas Brooks0God's ProvisionTrust in GodPSA 34:10PSA 37:25MAT 6:26MAT 7:11LUK 12:24ROM 8:322CO 9:8PHP 4:19JAS 1:171PE 5:7Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of trusting God for even the smallest needs, arguing that if God has given us great gifts like salvation and His Son, we should have faith that He will also provide for our lesser needs. He challenges believers to reflect on the abundance they have received and to not let fear or doubt hinder their trust in God's provision for daily necessities. Brooks encourages Christians to reason through their fears and recognize that the same God who has blessed them spiritually will not withhold what they need physically.
He Careth for You
By William MacDonald0Assurance in TrialsGod's CareEXO 16:4PSA 56:8ISA 43:2ISA 49:16MAT 6:26MAT 10:29MAT 10:31LUK 12:6HEB 13:51PE 5:7William MacDonald emphasizes God's profound care for His people, illustrating this through biblical examples such as the provision for Israel in the wilderness and the care for sparrows and lilies. He reassures us that we are of greater value to God than these creatures, as evidenced by Christ's sacrificial love and His intimate knowledge of our lives. MacDonald highlights that God is always present with us, bearing our burdens and ensuring our needs are met, even in times of trouble. He concludes with the assurance that God's care extends throughout our lives, from youth to old age, and that He will never abandon us.
The Mystic Universe in My Back Yard
By Samuel Logan Brengle0NatureSpiritualityGEN 1:31JOB 12:7PSA 19:1PSA 104:24PSA 148:1ECC 3:11ISA 40:26MAT 6:26LUK 12:27ROM 1:20Samuel Logan Brengle reflects on the profound beauty and spiritual significance of nature found in his own back yard, contrasting it with the teachings of St. Paul, who did not emphasize the wonders of creation. He shares his journey of discovering the intimate relationship between God and nature, finding solace and healing in the simple yet profound elements of his surroundings. Brengle emphasizes that the universe is not only vast and grand but also intricately present in the small details of life, leading him to worship and gratitude for the beauty around him.
Light of Life
By A.W. Tozer0Faith and TrustThe BiblePSA 119:105PRO 3:5ISA 40:29MAT 6:26JHN 1:4ROM 10:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:22REV 21:4A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the Bible is a life-giving book, designed to guide humanity towards understanding God's mercy, the importance of faith, and the need for trust in our Heavenly Father. He explains that the scriptures serve to remind us of our frailty, warn us of the dangers of sin, and prepare us for eternal life in heaven. The Bible's teachings are not merely for intellectual curiosity but are meant to lead us away from destruction and towards divine grace. Through its stories and lessons, we are encouraged to reflect on our faults and seek deliverance. Ultimately, the Bible is a beacon of hope and guidance for our spiritual journey.
We Are Not Orphans
By A.W. Tozer0Assurance in GodDivine GuidancePSA 23:1PSA 139:9ISA 41:10JER 29:11MAT 6:26JHN 10:14ROM 8:28PHP 4:19HEB 13:51PE 5:7A.W. Tozer emphasizes that Christian believers are not orphans, as they are guided by the divine Shepherd who leads them on a purposeful journey. He addresses a reader's inquiry about the concept of an 'appointed way,' clarifying that he does not intend to delve into complex doctrines like foreordination but rather to express confidence that God can turn even life's accidents into blessings for those who trust Him. Tozer reassures believers that they can rest easy knowing that God's care transcends denominational differences.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Behold the fowls of the air--in Mat 6:28, "observe well," and in Luk 12:24, "consider"--so as to learn wisdom from them. 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?--nobler in yourselves and dearer to God. The argument here is from the greater to the less; but how rich in detail! The brute creation--void of reason--are incapable of sowing, reaping, and storing: yet your heavenly Father suffers them not helplessly to perish, but sustains them without any of those processes. Will He see, then, His own children using all the means which reason dictates for procuring the things needful for the body--looking up to Himself at every step--and yet leave them to starve?
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which of you by taking thought,.... As Christ argued before, from the unnecessariness of anxious thoughts and cares, about the provisions of life; so here, from the unprofitableness of them; it being impossible for a man, with all his care and thought, to add one cubit unto his stature, or "to his age"; so the word is rendered, Joh 9:21 to the days of his life, he is so solicitous about; for a cubit may as well be applied to a man's age, as an "hand's breadth" is to his days, Psa 39:5. Nor is it so reasonable to think, that Christ should be speaking of making such an addition to a man's height; though that, to be sure, is an impossible thing: since the far greater part of Christ's hearers must be come to their full growth, and could not hope to have any addition made to their height; though they might hope to add to their days; much less such a monstrous one as that of a cubit, and which is a strong reason against the other sense of the word, and for this: for our Lord is speaking of something very small, which men cannot do; as appears from what Luke says, Luk 12:26 "If ye then be not able to do that which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?" Whereas, to add a cubit to a man's height, is a great deal: "the stature of a middling man (says (f) Bartenora) is three cubits.'' And to add one more, makes a large addition to his stature; but to apply this to a man's age, is a small matter, and yet is what men cannot do: the sense of the words is this, that no man, by all the care and thought he can make use of, is ever able to add one cubit, or the least measure to his days; he cannot lengthen out his life one year, one month, one day, one hour; no, not one moment. (f) In Misn. Erubim, c. 4. sect. 5. & Negaim, c. 13. sect. 11.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:26 Jesus’ logic progresses from lesser to greater: If the Father tends to birds (the lesser), and the disciple is far more valuable to him (the greater), then he will certainly tend to the disciples’ needs (see also 10:29-31).