How does Jesus help calm our worries? Like a tender shepherd Jesus knows his sheep, and he knows his preceding words about worldly wealth may exacerbate our anxiety. Join us as we see him remind us of the fullness of our life, our value in our Father’s eyes, and the futility of our anxiety to give us anything of value. Drawing on his words in this and earlier paragraphs we also consider the practical means he provides us to combat the worry and anxiety that beset us. May God increase our faith!

What does it look like to take up the whole armor of God in the face of determined opposition? This morning we consider (1) the death throes of a defeated enemy, (2) the strategies of a prepared warrior, and (3) wearing the armor of God today. As we consider Nehemiah in light of Ephesians 6:10–20 we see a living example of what it looks like to put on the whole armor of God.

In the face of dire circumstances Paul instructs the Philippians to rejoice! Why? How can this be? What does this sort of life look like?