New Testament
Matthew 6:34
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus teaches us not to be anxious about the future.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
So don't worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will have its own problems. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
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.
Plain Meaning
Jesus closes His teaching on worry with a practical reason to stop: tomorrow will bring its own troubles when it arrives, so there is no point carrying them today. Each day has enough hardship to deal with as it comes. The command is to live in the present day rather than being consumed by anxiety over what has not happened yet.
Read It in Context
This is the final verse of a passage where Jesus has argued against anxiety over food, drink, and clothing. He has pointed to how God feeds birds and clothes wildflowers, and in verse 33 told His hearers to seek God's kingdom first. Verse 34 is the closing practical point that follows from all of that.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Matthew 6:34 and any verse in the Bible.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus teaches us not to be anxious about the future. He emphasizes that worrying about tomorrow is unproductive because each day comes with its own challenges. Instead of being consumed by what might happen, we should focus on the present and deal with today's issues. This perspective encourages us to trust in God’s provision and care, reminding us that worrying does not change our circumstances. By acknowledging that tomorrow will have its own set of problems, we can find peace in the present moment and manage our daily responsibilities without the burden of future anxieties. This teaching is a call to live in faith, relying on God for our needs rather than being overwhelmed by uncertainties. Explore related anxiety.
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How to apply Matthew 6:34 to your life
To apply this teaching, practice mindfulness by focusing on today’s tasks and challenges without letting future worries distract you. Set aside time for prayer and reflection, asking God for strength and guidance for each day. This can help reduce anxiety and foster a sense of peace.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary · Matthew 6:34 Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 6:34 mean?
Matthew 6:34 teaches that we should not worry about the future because each day has its own challenges. Instead of being anxious about what might happen tomorrow, we should focus on the present and trust that God will provide for our needs.
What is the meaning of 'sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof' in Matthew 6:34?
'Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof' means that each day has enough difficulties to deal with, so we shouldn't add to our burdens by worrying about tomorrow's problems. It encourages us to handle today's issues without being overwhelmed by future concerns.
How can I apply Matthew 6:34 in my life?
To apply Matthew 6:34, focus on your current tasks and avoid letting future worries distract you. Practice mindfulness and prayer to help manage anxiety and find peace in your daily responsibilities.
Why does Jesus say not to worry about tomorrow in Matthew 6:34?
Jesus says not to worry about tomorrow because worrying does not change our circumstances and can lead to unnecessary stress. Instead, He encourages us to trust in God's provision and focus on handling today's challenges.
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