Discussion Guide
In God’s Word we are commanded to seek His Kingdom first. Yet we tend to do the opposite and allow worry to consume our thoughts and pull our attention toward circumstances we cannot control. Jesus invites us to bring those concerns to Him, trust our Father’s care, and pursue something greater than ourselves. As we spend time with God, learn His Word, pray, worship, serve, and walk alongside others, He reorients our hearts and gives us peace that does not depend on our circumstances.
What you will need: A Bible or Bible app, a notebook, a pen, and a highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
If you could eliminate one simple but annoying everyday task forever, what would it be?
1. Remember Who Cares for You
Read Matthew 6:25-27:
• What does Jesus’ comparison between people and birds reveal about God’s care for us and our value to Him?
• What point is Jesus making when He asks whether worry can add a single moment to our lives?
• If you are comfortable, share a concern of yours that take up a lot of your attention right now. How might remembering your value to God change the way you carry it?
2. Consider What You Are Seeking
Read Mathew 6: 31-34:
• What can dominate our thoughts, and what truth does Jesus give us to challenge that worry?
• What promise comes with seeking God’s Kingdom first? Discuss how worrying about the days ahead can affect our mental health?
• What do you think is the difference between being responsible about something and worrying about it?
3. Bring Everything to God
Read Philippians 4:6-7:
• What solution does Paul give us in place of allowing anxiety to control our thoughts? What makes these instructions so hard to actually live out?
• How do bringing our specific requests to God, while also practicing thanksgiving, help us experience His peace, even when our circumstances haven't changed?
• Do you have a burden you need to bring honestly to God, and possibly allow trusted people to help you carry?
Optional - Deeper Dive
Read John 14:26-27, Matthew 11:28:
• How are the peace and rest Jesus promises different from the kind of peace the world tries to offer?
• What helps you intentionally come to Jesus, spend time in His presence, and allow His truth to settle your heart?
Action Step
Worry pulls our attention in many directions, but Jesus invites us to seek Him first. Each day this week:
1. Name it: Identify one concern occupying your thoughts.
2. Bring it: Talk honestly with God about it and thank Him for one way He has been faithful.
3. Seek Him: Spend a few quiet minutes reading God’s Word and listening to Him.
4. Take one step: Focus on what God has placed before you today. This may mean completing a responsibility, serving someone, encouraging a friend, or allowing another person to help carry your burden.
When anxiety returns, pause and ask: “What am I seeking right now, and how can I seek God first in this moment?”