Matthew 6:34 states, “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”   The New Testament was originally written in the Greek language.  Therefore, it is helpful to look up what the Greek words mean when we have difficulty understanding a verse.

The word “thought” is mentioned twice in this verse.  In both cases the word “thought” comes from the Greek word “merimnao” which means “to be anxious about.”  The Lord Jesus is speaking in this verse and He does not want us to worry about the future.  He loves us so much that He died for us and He is trying to spare us the physical, emotional and spiritual damage that can occur from worry.  We read in 1 Peter 5:7, “Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.”

Concerning planning for the future, the Lord Jesus says in Luke 14:28, “For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?” The Lord encourages us to plan ahead, but He does not want us to worry about the future. Philippians 4:6-7 state, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” The word “careful in verse 6 comes from the same Greek word as “thought” in Matthew 6:34.  May each of us cast our cares on the Lord and pray with thanksgiving as we ask Him for wisdom for each day of our lives.  (156.4)  (DJ)