“Worry is the sin of distrusting the promise and providence of God, and yet it is a sin that Christians commit perhaps more frequently than any other.” --John MacArthur
Jerry Bridges calls worry, the Christian’s “respectable sin.” That is saying it nicely considering most Christians don’t even recognize worry as a sin. We worry because we are under a delusion that we are in control of our lives, and that we can solve our own issues. The antithesis of trust in God is disbelief, which is what we are doing when we let worry control us. The appalling part of worry is that we become independent and self-sufficient, and in a sense become our own god.
Peeling away the layers of worry reveals the ugliness of a tolerated sin that needs to be repented of, like any other sin! Worry is a big deal that is often overlooked. God’s Word tells us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV)
Examine Yourself
Do you trust God in the midst of the life’s struggles or do you take matters into our own hands? Are you full of worry or strong in faith? What is your first reaction to tragedy, prayer or panic? Who are you really depending on?
Posts
Is there a difference between worry and concern?
Great question Jim! The word for worry can also be translated anxious, or anxiety. These words describe someone who is divided in their spirit. When trials or trouble occur they become divided inwardly, and instead of focusing on trusting God they become distracted and overwhelmed by the problem or issue they face. It reveals their lack of faith or weak faith. This would relate to Philippians 4:6, "Do not be anxious..." Instead of turning to God through prayer, they react in the flesh and become full of worry and anxiety.
Concern or care are proper reactions for us because this does not divide or distract us from our relationship to God and others, it only enhances them. When troubles arise, and we are concerned because maybe it has to do with a loved one being sick, we turn to God in faith, which draws us closer to God, as we pray and seek His help and guidance for that situation. This can be seen in Philippians 2:20 where Paul talks about Timothy's "genuine concern" in a positive way that reveals Timothy's selfless love for Paul. Timothy's concern did not divide or distract, but showed his true character of genuine love for his brother. Concern builds our faith while worry destroys it.