Luke 12 verses 27- 28. “Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labour or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendour was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!”
When Jesus spoke about the birds of the air he was contrasting their value to ours in God’s sight.
Now He turns to the lilies and flowers of the field. He is not now comparing our greater value – but our greater permanence. Flowers last only a very brief time. Yet though they fade fast look at how beautifully God adorns them. He thinks it is worthwhile to keep his creation looking beautiful.
And do we think God will not make provision for us, when we last so much longer?
Now here is a question for you. What should we do with all of life’s goods once we have them? Well Jesus tells us in a startling way in v 33: “Sell your possessions and give to the poor”.
But let’s note the context. Christ is not saying that Christians should own nothing. Martha and Mary were not sinning in owning a house where Jesus himself was often a guest. It is not wrong for a Christian to be rich or have wealth. Quite the opposite. The true Christian should get as much as he can in an honest and upright way. But that means that he should then give as much as he can to the affairs of the Kingdom. And indeed that is exactly what many wealthy Christians do. The more money given to Gospel work to win people for Christ, or to assist the poor, is to invest in heaven where it is safe from loss, robbery or devaluation.
Sell and giving to the poor then is Jesus’ way of saying ‘have a right perspective on our wealth”. It does not in the end belong to you.
And to those who have no wealth to give, He says: “Do not fear little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the Kingdom.” (v 32).
So keep your eyes on heaven. , Work hard. Do not be unduly alarmed. Trust God. Remember “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”.