An Unwelcome Guest | Luke 12:22-34

Summary

In this message, Trip Lee teaches from Luke 12:22–34 and calls worry what it really is: an unwelcome guest. Jesus doesn’t deny that we have real needs, but he tells us not to invite worry into the equation because it distorts reality and steals peace. Instead, Jesus gives us three reasons worry doesn’t belong. The invitation is to trade worry for trust, seek the kingdom, and live with the security of a Father who knows what we need and delights to give us the kingdom.

Key Takeaways

• Worry is never a welcome addition. Worry is like a weak link team member. It adds nothing, makes everything worse, and often does more harm than good.
• There’s more to the story. Jesus says life is more than food and the body more than clothing. Healthy attention is wise action, while worry can turn into desperation that misshapes our actions.
• There’s witness testimony. Jesus points to ravens and wildflowers. They don’t sow, reap, store, labor, or spin, yet God feeds and clothes them.
  
• There’s a better teammate. Instead of striving and being anxious, Jesus says, “Seek his kingdom,” because the Father knows what you need. Prayer isn’t informing God; it’s trusting God.

Discussion Questions

• What’s the difference between healthy attention and worry in your life right now? Where do you cross the line?
• How have you seen God provide in the past? What does remembering his track record do to your worry today?
• What does it look like for you to “seek the kingdom” in your current season (work, family, finances, relationships)?
• Is there an area where worry is keeping you from being generous with time, money, or attention? What would trusting God change?