By Bethany Moore, Founder of Live Equally Yoked
In our fast-paced world, filled with demands and uncertainties, it's easy to fall into the trap of fretting. We worry about finances, relationships, health, and the future. But as Christians, we are called to a different way of life - one marked by trust in God and a refusal to succumb to anxiety.
The Dangers of Fretting
Fretting, or worrying, is more than just a fleeting emotion. It's a destructive force that can wreak havoc on our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. When we fret, we essentially put ourselves "out of joint" - misaligned with God's will and purposes.
Spiritually, fretting is a sign of unbelief. It reveals a lack of trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. When we worry, we are essentially saying, "God, I don't believe you are in control, and I don't believe you have my best interests at heart." This is a dangerous path to tread, as it can erode our faith and lead us into sin.
Mentally, fretting can lead to a host of problems, including depression, anxiety, and even physical ailments. When we constantly worry, our minds become cluttered with negative thoughts and emotions. This can make it difficult to focus, concentrate, and make sound decisions.
The Cure for Fretting
The Bible has a simple yet profound solution for fretting: rest in the Lord. This doesn't mean being passive or inactive. Rather, it means actively choosing to trust God with our worries and concerns. It means surrendering our plans and desires to Him, knowing that He is ultimately in control.
Resting in the Lord is not dependent on our external circumstances. We can be facing financial difficulties, health problems, or relationship struggles and still find peace and contentment in God. Why? Because our relationship with Him is the source of our true joy and fulfillment.
When we deliberately choose to rest in the Lord, we are essentially saying, "God, I trust you. I believe you are good, and I know you have a plan for my life." This act of faith can bring about a radical transformation in our lives.
Practical Steps to Stop Fretting
Acknowledge your worries to God. Don't try to hide or suppress your anxieties. Bring them before God in prayer, and be honest about how you feel.
Choose to trust God. Remind yourself of His promises and His faithfulness. Read His Word, and meditate on His truths.
Refuse to worry. When anxious thoughts come, deliberately tell God that you will not fret. Replace those thoughts with Scripture verses or positive affirmations.
Plan with God. Instead of trying to control everything yourself, seek God's guidance and wisdom in all your decisions.
The Promise of Peace
"Do not fret – – – it will only cause harm." - Psalms 37:8
When we choose to trust God and rest in Him, we can experience a peace that surpasses all understanding. This peace is not based on our circumstances but on our relationship with the Prince of Peace Himself.
So let us cast our anxieties on Him, knowing that He cares for us deeply. Let us choose to live equally yoked with Christ, free from the burden of fretting and worry.
Remember, God is in control, and He has a plan for your life. Trust Him, and you will find true peace and contentment.
Bethany Moore
Lifestyle Consultant & Founder