Fretting Because of Others

Psalm 37:1 Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

Although the Bible repeatedly warns against fretting, believers fret because of others. Sadly, one’s worry can make the sin of others seem more desirable. We should not fret because of “evildoers” (Psalm 37:1), or “him who prospereth in his way (Psalm 37:7), or “the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass” (Psalm 37:7), or even “evil men” (Proverbs 24:19). Some believers may fret about these people because of their fears, but the scripture offers another reason why believers fret over the wicked. According to Psalm 37:1 and Proverbs 24:19, fretting over the wicked is directly associated to one’s envy toward them. Perhaps believers worry about these people so much because there is a deep-rooted desire to become like them. This desire can be rooted in the fact that those whom we fear are viewed as more powerful, more in control, and even more confident. Eliminate the envy and you will eliminate the fear.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):Do you know children who have more to play with than you do? God does not want us to be upset when we do not have what others have (Galatians 5:26). What we have we get from Him (John 3:27; James 1:17). He wants us to be content with what we have (Hebrews 13:5).

(For everyone):What are reasons believers might fret over the wicked? Why do you personally fret over the wicked? Is it possible that you harbour some envy toward them?

(For everyone):Fretting is the opposite of resting in the Lord and waiting patiently for Him (Psalm 37:7). Which will you choose? Will you choose to fret or choose to trust?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Ask the Lord to show you the desires of your heart.

Ask God to help you trust Him in all matters of life.

SONG

Simply Resting

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