Most of us have found ourselves in a loop of constant worry. Whether it is about financial issues, your first day at school or your job, or when you must present a speech before a multitude. Worrying often comes with doubting oneself and wondering if things will fall into place. However, is it okay for Christians to constantly worry? Is worrying a sin?
Though the Bible does not rule out worrying as a sin, it encourages us against worrying. The book of Philippians 4:6 commands us not to worry but instead go to God through prayer and tell him of our worries and requests. Additionally, Jesus taught in the gospel of Mathew 6:25-34 that we should have faith in God and seek his Kingdom first, and he will provide us with everything else, as worrying will not do us any good.
So, what does the Bible say about worrying? What does the Catholic Church say about worrying? What did Jesus say about worrying? Why shouldn’t you be worried as a Christian? When does worry become a sin? How can Christians overcome constant worrying? What are some Bible verses about worrying? Stick around for more information and answers to these questions and more.
So, what does the Bible say about worrying?
The Bible commands Christians in the book of Philippians 4:6 that we should not worry. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety weighs down the heart.”
Additionally, the scripture in the book of 1st peter 5:6-7 also encourages Christians to cast all our worries to God because God cares for us. Therefore, as Christians, we should be alert not to listen to the voice of worry but turn to God, for he cares.
What does the Catholic Church say about worrying?
The Catholic Church agrees with the book of Philippians 4:6 that Christians should not worry as it tampers with their trust and faith in God. They believe that Christians are supposed to be a source of courage and strength to others. St John Vianney of the Catholic Church noted, “God commands you to pray, but he forbids you to worry.”
Additionally, St. Jerome of the Catholic Church notes that facing our fears as Christians and accomplishing whatever we have to despite them is an excellent way of taking our cross. He notes that this affirms that we are serving Christ through our efforts to be brave and not worry.
What did Jesus say about worrying?
Jesus encourages us in the book of Mathew 6:25-34 that we should not worry about our physical needs like food and clothing as God will take care of everything. Jesus urges us to seek the Kingdom of God first, and God will reward us with everything else.
Mathew 6:28-31 continues and says, “And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious saying, what shall we eat? Or what shall we drink? Or what shall we wear?”
Why shouldn’t you be worried as a Christian?
The Bible clearly states Christians shouldn’t be worried as God will provide us with everything we want as long as we seek his Kingdom first. Furthermore, the book of Colossians 3:1-4 says that we should set our minds on the things above and not earthly things.
Additionally, Christians should not worry because the book of Mathew 6:25-34 notes that there is more to life than worries. Theologians agree that there is more to life, and worrying only makes us focus on bad things even when there are other good things going on in our lives.
When does worrying become a sin?
Worrying becomes a sin when we lose our faith in God and choose to listen to the voice of worry instead of God’s voice. The Bible explicitly states that we should put God first, and he shall provide anything else unto us. If we start doubting God and listening to other voices resulting from worry, then we sin against God.
Exodus 20:2-3 says, “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me.” Theologians note that the scripture uses the term “gods” to imply anything that separates us from God, be it an idol or worrying.
How can Christians overcome constant worrying?
Christians can overcome constant worrying by casting all of their worries on God. God does not want us to carry our problems alone. What he wants us to do is have faith in him and seek his Kingdom, leaving everything up to him as he has better plans for us. He cares for us and is concerned about our well-being; thus, he will provide to use anything we ask from him through prayer and supplication.
Psalms 55:22 says, “Cast your cares on the Lord, and he will sustain you. He will never let the righteous shaken.”
Mathew 11:28 reads, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will you rest.”
Bible verses about worrying
Mathew 6:25 says, “Therefore, I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing.”
The Bible is clear that life is more than our worries about what will happen tomorrow. Jesus goes on and says let tomorrow worry for itself. Mathew 6:34, “Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Therefore, it is key to trust God and trust that he is in control.
Philippians 4:6 reads, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Rather than worrying, let’s make whatever it is known to God, and the scripture says he is gracious enough to grant us our wishes.
1st peter 5:7 says, “Casting all your anxieties on him because he cares for you.”
God is clear through the scripture that we should bring our burdens to him and take his because his burden is less heavy. Therefore, whenever you are caught in a loop of anxiety, run to him, for he cares for you.
Mathew 6:32 reads, “For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things be added to you.”
As Christians, our minds should be focused on the Kingdom of God and not on which clothes we will wear tomorrow. Jesus asks if he can feed birds of the air, won’t he do much more for us?
References
What Does the Bible Say About Worry Is A Sin?
What does the Bible say about worry?
“Do not worry about tomorrow”—is that even possible (Matthew 6:34)?
How can I turn all my worries and problems over to God?
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
