Article March 9, 1981 Issue

For the convenience of some readers we will occasionally print an article in large type.

Expected: a changed standpoint

LILIAN TROWBRIDGE HAKE

Many of the challenges that faced people in Jesus' time are still common concerns today: how to have sufficient food, clothing, and shelter; how to be well, happy, secure. Many who heard the Master's words probably hoped to find in them a formula for making their lives more cosseted and comfortable, while they continued to think in the same old way. How many today look to God to pad their lives for them, so to speak, while they go on exactly as before?

As we really study the words of Christ Jesus we find that when he said "Follow me," it was a mental journey he spoke of— a putting off of worldy thinking. Material thinking cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven, for the kingdom is a state of spiritual consciousness. We have to put off materiality for spirituality.

Jesus pointed out that there was no need for all the material thought-taking. He drew attention to how the birds were fed and how beautifully the flowers of the fields were clothed. Then he added, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."^{Matt. 6:33.} This surely is the other way round from expecting God to keep our material-mindedness intact!