Luke Part 2 Week 20

Day 1 

RECEIVE 

Luke 12:20-21 

²⁰ “But God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’ ²¹ Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.” 

This is what God said to the man who built more storage space for his crops and thought he was set for life. God called such a person “a fool” for only thinking about earthly treasure. At his death all that wealth would be of no benefit to him. 

REFLECT 

Does this give you better perspective about earthly wealth in contrast to a rich relationship with God? 

RESPOND 

Visit with a friend about where a Christ-follower’s attention should be focused. Read Colossians 3:1-3 to aid your thoughts. 

Day 2 

RECEIVE 

Luke 12:22-24 

²² Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. ²³ For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. ²⁴ Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds!” 

There are many things involved in thinking about the needs in a given day. Jesus wants His followers, however, to have confidence in Him to provide for them. Here He compares the ravens that are fed by God. If that is true, then those considered more valuable by God should trust Him for their needs. Jesus did not die for the ravens as He did for the human race. 

REFLECT 

Consider God’s love for you in contrast to what He has done for animal life.  

RESPOND 

Talk with a friend about comparing some verses. First read 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and ask how that is possible. Then read Romans 8:28 to realize the end process will be for your good and God’s glory.  

Day 3 

RECEIVE 

Luke 12:25-26 

²⁵ “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? ²⁶ And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?” 

Jesus drives home His point about the need to trust in Him for one’s needs. All the worrying a person can do does not add even the smallest thing to her or his life. If that is the case, worrying cannot help with more important matters. Concern about what may occur in the future is easy for all to practice. But worry will not change the future.  

REFLECT 

Do you realize you cannot change your past nor change the future by worrying about it? 

RESPOND 

Discuss with a friend the difference between being concerned and worrying. Everyone should be concerned enough about the future to put their trust in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. But trying to change things by worrying will not help.  

Day 4 

RECEIVE 

Luke 12:27-28 

²⁷ “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. ²⁸ And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?” 

Jesus had talked about the birds, now He refers to the flowers. As one carefully looks at flowers, it is amazing to see the shades of colors God has put into each. Jesus pointed out how temporary the life of a flower is. If God gives so much attention to that which is temporary, think what He will do for those He was willing to send His son to die for.  

REFLECT 

Have you thought about how much more important you are to God than beautiful flowers? 

RESPOND 

Join with a friend in reading Romans 8:31-39. This important passage emphasizes that nothing can separate Christ-followers from God’s love. Talk about this with your friend. 

Day 5 

RECEIVE 

Luke 12:29-31 

²⁹ “And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. ³⁰ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. ³¹ Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.” 

In addition to mentioning the birds and blossoming plants, Jesus addressed the physical needs in this life. This was not to minimize those who are truly hungry, but something for those who have plenty of this world’s provisions. Jesus contrasted those who only thought about their earthly needs with His followers who needed to keep their focus on the Kingdom of God.  

REFLECT 

What is your situation? Is the focus of your attention more on the temporal needs of life or on the eternal blessings of being in right relationship with God? 

RESPOND 

Talk with a friend about the spiritual riches you have in contrast to any earthly riches you may have. Think on Ephesians 1:14 in this regard.