“Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” Matthew 6:27
Worrying will make no difference to our situation, but sometimes we trick ourselves into thinking that we’re achieving something by worrying. We may think that we are showing love and concern for our friend. Choosing not to worry may feel like we are letting down those closest to us. Alternatively, some people do the opposite and feel that by ignoring the problem and not worrying they are displaying trust in their friend’s ability to solve their own problems.
Yet the Biblical view is to pray and trust in God, which is an active thing to do and not simply a way of denying there’s a problem. Peter writes, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). This view neither denies nor ignores the problem but places our focus on our heavenly Father. Trusting God and praying will make a difference since it releases faith. This gives God the opportunity to move in the circumstances.
Sometimes we feel guilty when we stop worrying and trusting God, because we may feel a sense of peace and joy while our friend is struggling. However, it’s not God’s intention that we assume responsibility for other people’s problems, even if that person is our child or spouse. The best way of supporting someone is to pray and trust God.
Paul tells us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6).
