Attitude of Christ-followers

March 27, 2011 Matthew 6:19-34 You cannot serve God and money This week we wrapped up the discussion of Matthew 6:19-34. Previous discussions were summarized. 19-21: The value of the Christ-follower is to acquire treasures in heaven. This does not ban or demonize possessions in this life, or even monetary savings for the future. But Christ-followers do not define life by material goods. 22-23: The focus of the Christ-follower is an outward purpose, rather than an inward. This corresponds to Christ's mindset. We began today's study with verse 24. Like everyone else, Christ's followers can only serve one master. In this case, we are challenged to put God ahead of money. How does one become a slave to money? Borrowing; working at the cost of daily devotions or family relationships; allowing too much exposure to advertising's influence; not being satisfied with what we have. We can dedicate our lives to wealth, or to possessions, leading to debt (loss of flexibility is a symptom). Further checks on our priorities: What do we spend our money on? When the Spirit leads, can we follow without fear? (This second question is most obvious when we are led to give money.) How can we avoid becoming a slave to money? Self-discipline can indicate how strong our ties are to any thing, even money. Deliberate "fasting" of possessions (or spending habits) can train us to keep God first. God's Word and God's messengers can help us intentionally re-focus upon God. We need to recognize the difference between "want" and "need." We need to remember that God knows what is best for us. Putting ourselves under His leadership is NOT like serving a harsh taskmaster. Beginning in verse 25, the topic of worry is addressed. The "therefore" indicates that having the attitude described in 19-24 can combat worry. Worry reveals a lack of trust in God. The unknown bothers us. We fear loss, especially loss of control. While we usually agree that God can, we worry when we are not certain that God will. And we're not certain that He will do something how and when we want. God is attentive to babies (new Christians). Next, He works on teaching us to trust. By remembering what God has done, we can recall His faithfulness. We can "set up stones," based on the experience of the ancient Jews, by deliberately reminding ourselves of His help. [Setting up stones implies visible reminders. "I purchased this plaque when God helped me through that tough situation," or "We planted that bush to remind us of how God answered that prayer."] We can also let others point out God's faithfulness to us. The rest of the passage contrasts pagans and Christ-followers. Pagans have an inordinate worry for the necessities of life. Christ-followers, with their values, focus, and following of the Spirit, train themselves to say "Lord, lead me in this. Help me to make right decisions." This is not automatic, and requires us to learn to trust Him. How do we seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness? Moment-by-moment prayer. Surrender to God. Surrender of our own image (by admitting our needs to others). Staying in God's Word. Understanding the ultimate goal, to let God transform us. ("Being" is more central than "doing," though both are transformed.) Understanding our identity in God. 1. Godly values and perspectives are not automatic. The Holy Spirit becomes a shaping influence on those who are serious about following. 2. Make the Kingdom of God the organizing principle around which life is lived. This requires intentionality. 3. "Kingdom-first living" frees a person from a life of worry and despair.