Worry. What it Costs:

A message to Believers

The Bible offers plenty of guidance on the subject of worrying, emphasizing trust in God, seeking His peace, and surrendering our anxieties to Him. Here are some key scriptures from the NASB that address this topic, along with insights to help unpack their meaning.

Philippians 4:6-7 (NASB)

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

This passage reminds us to turn to God in prayer when we feel overwhelmed by worry. Instead of allowing anxiety to consume us, we are encouraged to present our concerns to God with a thankful heart. The promise here is profound: God’s peace will protect our hearts and minds, even when our circumstances remain challenging. This peace transcends human understanding and is rooted in the assurance of His love and sovereignty.

Matthew 6:25-27 (NASB)

“For this reason, I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink, nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the sky, that they do not sow, nor reap, nor gather crops into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more important than they? And which of you by worrying can add a single day to his life’s span?”

In this sermon, Jesus urges us to focus on trusting God for our needs rather than being consumed by worry. The imagery of birds being provided for is a powerful reminder of God’s care for His creation—and especially for us, His beloved children. The rhetorical question here challenges us to consider the futility of worry; it cannot change the outcome or add value to our lives, yet it often robs us of peace and joy.

1 Peter 5:7 (NASB)

“Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares about you.”

This verse highlights the personal nature of God’s concern for us. It encourages believers to surrender their worries and burdens to Him, knowing that He is attentive and compassionate. The act of “casting” implies a deliberate choice to release our anxieties, trusting that God will sustain us. It’s a call to faith and dependence on His care.

Proverbs 12:25 (NASB)

“Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad.”

This proverb captures the emotional weight of worry and the power of encouragement. Anxiety can feel like a heavy burden that drags us down, but uplifting words—whether from Scripture, a friend, or the Holy Spirit—can bring hope and renewal. It reminds us to seek God’s Word and share kindness with others as a way to combat the heaviness of worry.

Reflection and Takeaway:

Worrying often stems from fear of uncertainty, but these scriptures consistently point us back to God as our refuge and provider. They teach us to rely on prayer, recognize the futility of worry, and trust that God’s care for us is unchanging. By meditating on His promises, we can replace anxiety with confidence in His provision and sovereignty.

In the biblical sense, worrying can come with significant spiritual and emotional costs. It reflects a lack of trust in God’s sovereignty and provision, which can hinder our relationship with Him and rob us of the peace and joy He desires for us.

The Cost of Worrying in the Bible, Disruption of Peace:

Worrying often distracts us from experiencing the peace God offers. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to seek God through prayer and thanksgiving, as His peace surpasses all understanding. When we choose worry over faith, we forfeit this divine peace and allow anxiety to weigh us down emotionally and spiritually.

Doubt in God’s Provision

Worry reflects a lack of confidence in God’s ability to meet our needs. Matthew 6:31-33 urges believers to seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness, promising that all other necessities will be provided. If we allow worry to dominate our thoughts, we may question God’s faithfulness, which can erode our trust in Him.

Hindrance to Spiritual Growth:

Worry can distract us from focusing on God’s calling and hinder our spiritual growth. In the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:22), Jesus describes how the worries of the world can choke the word of God, making it unfruitful. By succumbing to worry, we risk allowing spiritual truths to be overshadowed by worldly concerns.

Physical and Emotional Toll:

Proverbs 12:25 states, “Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad.” Worry takes a toll not only on our hearts but also on our minds and bodies. It leads to stress, weariness, and feelings of hopelessness, which can impact both our physical health and our ability to live joyfully.

Why Understanding the Cost Is Crucial:

Recognizing the cost of worrying helps us embrace the freedom God offers through faith. By understanding how worry can disrupt our peace, weaken our trust in God, and affect our well-being, we can make a conscious decision to release our anxieties and rely on His promises. This act of surrender is not only liberating but also transformative, allowing us to experience the fullness of His grace.

Jesus emphasizes in Matthew 11:28-30 (NASB)

“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is comfortable, and My burden is light.”* This invitation to exchange our burdens for His comfort is a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting Him over letting worry dominate our lives.

Ultimately, worry adds nothing of value to our lives—it only subtracts. Understanding this truth helps us turn to God, seeking His peace and trusting that He will sustain us, no matter the circumstances.