Why Should I Worry or Fret?

There’s an old Gaither tune called, “I Believe.” The verses speak of the things the author believed. Then the chorus sums it all up. Do you remember this song?

I Believe

He holds the future in the palm of His Hand;
And He has never failed me yet.
I know He's leading and still has control;
So why should I worry or fret?

He said that He'd go with me and protect me each day;
And brother, I've no reason to doubt.
He's been so near me every step of the way;
And God will surely lead His children on out.

There are some people who live each day in fear;
Of what tomorrow may bring.
But I'm trusting in One who is walking so near;
I'm talking 'bout the King of all kings.

I know He holds the future and I know He holds my hand.
I know just as sure as I'm singing this song,
I'm a part of His almighty plan.

I believe, I believe, I believe.
So why should I worry or fret?[i]

If we claim to believe all that this song says, why do we worry? Why do we fret? Why do we allow fear to gain control of our lives? I think it is different for each person, but what I am certain of is that God does not want us to worry. He urges us not to fret. He tells us not to be afraid. So perhaps we should find out what God says about this area of our lives.

Matthew 6:25-34 records Jesus’ discourse on the topic. His conclusion is “do not worry.” Do not worry about your life or your future. Because in reality, nothing comes from worrying. At least nothing good. Some physical issues can be the result of worrying.

And what does Jesus say to do instead of worrying? “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33 – NIV) Staying busy with God’s work will keep our minds off of the issues we worry about.

This same discourse can be found in Luke 12:22-34. In this passage, another way to keep from worrying is by helping the poor. Giving to the poor to be exact. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Luke 12:34 – NIV) If our hearts are concerned for others, it will not have time to be worrying.

What are we to do instead of worrying? Philippians 4:6 (NIV) gives us some insight. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” We are not to worry about anything. Instead, we are to pray.

This verse also says we are to be thankful. If we have thankful hearts, there won’t be space for worry.

We can also meditate upon God’s Words. David shares his thoughts on this in Psalm 119:97 (NIV). “Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.” If we are meditating on God’s Word all day long, when will we have time to worry?

The Lead Minister, Rick Rusaw, at LifeBridge Christian Church, my home church, said this about meditation. “If you know how to worry, you know how to meditate.” Get the connection? Use what you’ve learned about worrying and convert it into meditation of Scripture.

So what are some benefits to not worrying? Philippians 4:7 (NIV) says, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” First we see God’s peace will come upon us. There is nothing like His peace. It’s something we cannot understand, but when we have His peace, there is absolutely no reason to worry.

Second, our hearts and minds will be guarded against the temptation to worry. With this added bonus, worry should be eliminated from our vocabulary.

I know how easy it is to get into worry mode. We are human. We are parents. We are children of aging parents. We are unemployed. We are travelers. We are control freaks. We are _________ (you fill in the blank). But God clearly tells us not to worry. Because He wants us to put our faith and trust in Him. Not ourselves.

I believe the words to the tune above, particularly these words. “I know He holds the future and I know He holds my hand. I know just as sure as I'm singing this song, I'm a part of His almighty plan.” He’s got it. There’s no need for me to interfere in His plan. Especially with a little thing called worry.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

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[i] I Believe, Gaither Trio