Answers

By   •   January 18, 2008   •   Topics:

Q:

I guess I'm just a natural worrywart, because I admit I worry about everything, and I always have. A friend of mine tells me that Christians shouldn't worry, but I just can't help it. Is it a sin for me to worry so much?


A:

We are all different, and it’s true that some people tend to worry more than others. And it’s not necessarily wrong to think about the future and make plans to avoid its pitfalls. The Bible says, “A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge” (Proverbs 22:3).

But when worries and anxieties about the future consume us, then it is wrong–and the reason is because we aren’t trusting God for the future. After all, no matter how wise we are, the future is still hidden from us and it will always have its surprises. But the future is not hidden from God! And when we understand that He loves us, and that the future is in His hands (and not ours), then we will learn to trust Him for the future instead of worrying about it so much.

Jesus said, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? … Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself” (Matthew 6:27, 34). Worrying changes nothing, and only makes us anxious and fearful.

If you have never done so, turn to Christ by faith and commit your life to Him. Then ask Him to help you trust Him in everything. The Bible says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God … will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).