What does Mark 8:21 mean?

This question could easily be asked of modern believers. What earthly needs does God promise to provide for us? We are not part of the old covenant wherein obedience to the Mosaic Law brings peace and prosperity. But the passages in the New Testament can be confusing.

Scripture promises that those who ask of God will receive. God is as loving as any father and will give good gifts to His children (Matthew 7:7–11). But the Bible also says that although we will not receive if we don't ask, we won't receive if we ask with wrong motives (James 4:3). And that if someone is not willing to work, the church should not provide him with food (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

Matthew 6:25–33 is probably the most important but least understood passage in the discussion. Jesus tells the disciples they should not worry about what they will eat or drink. Verse 33 is especially vexing, and many have used it to claim a believer will never starve to death. The problem is in the translation. The New International Version says, "all these things will be given to you as well." But more precise translations say, "added to you." And this promise is not to all Christians, but to those who "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness." If we are actively following God, He will add to our supply of physical necessities; He does not promise that we will not starve to death if our continued presence on earth is not in His will.

The key is back in Matthew 6:25: "Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?" Thirteen men are in a boat with one loaf of bread to share. Twelve of them are concerned about going hungry. One is concerned about false teaching from prominent religious and civil leaders. Eating is important! But it is not as important as seeking God's kingdom and discovering the truth about God and Jesus.