Reframing AnxietySample

Day 4: Concern to Avoid

Yesterday, we explored that there are times highlighted in Scripture when it is good and acceptable to be concerned, because it can prompt us actively to care for others and ourselves in positive ways

At other times in Scripture, we are cautioned to avoid being anxious or overly concerned. That’s what we will explore today.

One example of concern to avoid is when Jesus encourages his listeners not to worry about what they will say and how they will defend themselves when brought before their persecutors. Jesus tells them that their words will be provided by the Holy Spirit (Mark 13:11; Luke 12:12). Understandably, they would be concerned about facing persecution. It is scary. They were anticipating flogging and even death. Remember, God designed our brains and bodies with an alert system to protect us from danger. Persecution? Yes, that’s dangerous. Jesus’s words would be a comfort amid the fear of facing persecution.

Anxiety is future-focused. Will I be safe? Will I have enough to meet my needs? Will I be able to handle what comes my way? Can I tolerate being out of control? Can I be okay with the unknown? Amid our anxiety, Jesus gently reminds us not to be overly concerned about our future, needs, and possessions (Matthew 6:25‑34). Challenges and troubles are part of life, and it’s easy to get stuck in worry. The world is full of unknowns and future concerns that might consume our minds and divide our attention.

Sometimes we have anxiety about all sorts of things at the same time, as Martha did in Luke 10:38‑42. We find her buzzing about trying to provide hospitality for Jesus, maybe worried that everything was just right. I can imagine how truly seen Martha felt when Jesus acknowledged her stress over trying to do so many things and his instruction to focus on the most important thing: Fellowship with him. A simple meal would be just fine.

These cautions don’t mean we shouldn’t work and plan for the future. Remember, merimnaō implies being overly concerned, your mind consumed with worry in a way that might interrupt your ability to plan or work. We wisely plan for the future, but what happens is ultimately out of our control. We may save, but a catastrophic illness or injury could wipe out our savings. We might exercise and make healthy choices so we can live a long, healthy life, and be diagnosed with a chronic, life‑altering illness. Allow your concern to prompt you toward planning and hold loosely to the outcome.