Fret Not Because of Evildoers

Daily Devotional – Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Do not fret because of evildoers…
Psalms 37:1 (NKJV)

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the word ‘fret’ means “to be nervous or worried”. Vocabulary.com traces the word to its roots. It states, “Fret comes from the Old English word freton which means to devour like an animal. When you fret over something, it consumes your thoughts.”

Do Not Get Upset About the Wicked

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers explains the word to mean, ‘to heat or inflame oneself.” In essence, when one frets, he or she is extremely angry and can act like an animal. Worry and anger occupy and consume their minds.

The verb ‘fret’ occurs three times in the Bible – in Psalms 37:1, 7 & 8 and Proverbs 24:19. In Psalms 37:1-2, David states, “Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.”

Do Not Be Preoccupied With Evildoers

Yes, it is possible to become extremely angry, worried and nervous when you see evil people prospering, especially if it is at your expense. Scripture, however, reminds us that ill-gotten wealth and those who hold it is have a short lifespan, like that of grass. “For evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait on the LORD; they shall inherit the earth.” (Psalms 37:9).

God invites us to trust Him, commit our works to Him and wait for Him to fulfil the desires of our hearts. (Psalm 37:3-6). Instead of being anxious and losing our cool because of the material success of the wicked, we are to “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him.” (Psalms 37:7).

Fret Not Because of Evildoers

Notice the contrast between ‘fretting’ about the wicked and ‘resting’ in the Lord. Anger, anxiety, worry and other negative emotions steal from us the tranquility that only God can give us. Instead of focusing on the lives of others, we should cast our burdens on the Lord and receive the peace and assurance He gives back.

Fret not because of evildoers. Do not waste your precious time thinking about them. Anything that costs you the peace of mind God offers you is not worth your attention. Rather, focus on your goals, commit them to God and let His peace fill you as you wait patiently for your success to come.

Prayer
Dear Father, fill me with Your indescribable peace and teach me not to fret over the wicked.