SERMON NOTES WITH APPLICATION - "RELAX" - MATTHEW 6:31-34 (MSG)

Pastor William Mathis
May 25
2 min read

Series Theme: All Along The Way

Sermon Title: Relax

Scripture: Matthew 6:31–34 (MSG)Overall Theme: Hidden Manna

Key Passage Summary (MSG)

“What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving... Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions... Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now... God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.”

This teaching from Jesus invites us to let go of anxiety, center our lives around God, and receive His care with open hands.

Point 1: Focus on God’s Faithfulness to You (vv. 31–32)

“Don’t be so preoccupied with getting... You know both God and how He works.”

Big Idea:

Instead of chasing what we think we need, we’re called to trust the God we already know. Anxiety often comes from forgetting how faithful He’s already been.

Practical Application:

For Young People: Don’t worry if you’ll “measure up” or “have enough.” God’s track record is solid—He’s got you.
For Adults: Pause and reflect on how God has already provided—emotionally, spiritually, financially. Let gratitude replace worry.
For Everyone: Take inventory of the ways God has shown up in your past. Let that history build your trust for today.

Point 2: Focus on God’s Promises to You (v. 33)

“Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions... You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.”

Big Idea:

When you prioritize God’s way, He takes care of your needs. Promises are not just spiritual—they’re practical.

Practical Application:

For Young People: Keep God first—in your time, your goals, and your choices. He promises to take care of your needs.
For Adults: Reorganize your priorities. Are you seeking provision first—or the Provider? Let God lead and watch Him fulfill His promises.
For Everyone: Write down one way you can steep your life in “God-initiative” this week—whether it’s through service, prayer, or generosity.

Point 3: Focus on Having a God-Centered Life (v. 34)

“Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now... Don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow.”

Big Idea:

Worry wastes energy on things that haven’t even happened. A God-centered life lives in the present, grounded in grace, not fear.

Practical Application:

For Young People: You don’t have to figure everything out right now. Focus on doing the next right thing with God.
For Adults: Stop forecasting failure. Tune in to how God is moving today, and trust Him with tomorrow.
For Everyone: Try a “one-day-at-a-time” practice—start the day asking: “What is God doing today, and how can I join Him?”

Final Reflection

Jesus' words in Matthew 6 remind us that our lives aren’t meant to be driven by fear or scarcity, but by trust in God’s provision.

When we focus on His faithfulness, we remember we are never alone.
When we focus on His promises, we realign our needs with His priorities.
When we center our lives on Him, we find peace, clarity, and strength for each day.