Matthew 6:26 (KJV)

What does this mean?

Jesus is teaching about worry, and he points to the birds: they do not plant fields or gather harvests into barns, yet their heavenly Father feeds them. His point is that if God cares for birds in this way, he cares far more for people, who matter much more to him. The verse does not say we should not work, the birds still go out and find their food each day, it says worry is the wrong response to need.

What does this teach us?

Your worth to God is not measured by what you produce. If God feeds creatures that cannot plant or store, he will not forget you, and the proof of his care is not your bank balance, but his fatherly attention to you.

How can we apply this?

The next time you catch yourself worrying about money or provision, step outside and look at the birds for a minute. Remember that the same Father who feeds them is watching over you, and then do today's work without carrying tomorrow's fear.

Related KJV passages

• “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

  Matthew 10:29-31

• “Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?”

  Luke 12:24

• “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

  Philippians 4:19