Again we turn our attention to one of the simple statements made by the Lord in the midst of the sermon on the mount. This week, a question: "Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?" (Matthew 6:27)

This question is part of a greater context (v 25-34), but even considered by itself provokes thought. Worrying is a common plight among mankind. We worry about our family, about our job, about our health, about bills, about relationships, about broken down cars, etc, etc.. Worry, worry, worry. And what do we have for it? Stress, sleepless nights, poorer health, distraction, headaches, greying hair, etc, etc..

It has been suggested by some that 95% of the things we worry about never happen, and the other 5% are things over which we have absolutely no control. So, why worry? Especially so for the child of God. Recall the words of the song,

Why worry, when you can pray?
Trust Jesus, He'll show you the way;
Don't be a doubting Thomas,
Rest fully on His promise,
Why worry, worry, worry, worry,
When you can pray?

As Jesus considers our tendency to worry, He inquires whether we can add a cubit to our stature by it? In what way have we benefitted ourselves through worrying? Can we add inches to our height or add years to our life? Can we improve our quality of life or solve the issues of life through worry? No, in fact, worrying does the opposite of all these.

What is worry? Just a few verses later, the Lord identifies it as a lack of faith. He reasons, "...if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or ‘What shall we drink?' or ‘What shall we wear?' For after all these things the Gentiles seek." (Matthew 6:30-32)

Friend, let us trust the Lord. May we lay our cares upon Him, knowing that He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). Let us set aside the worries and cares of life, and grasp onto the promises of a loving Saviour and God.