Where in the Bible Does It Say “Do Not Worry”? A Guided Exploration
In the midst of life’s myriad challenges and uncertainties, the phrase “do not worry” often serves as a comforting reminder to maintain peace and serenity. But where does this well-known piece of advice originate from? This article delves into the biblical origins of the phrase “do not worry,” exploring its significance and the verses that have shaped its enduring message.
The phrase “do not worry” is not a standalone verse in the Bible, but rather a summary of a broader message found in various passages. One of the most famous instances comes from the New Testament, in the book of Matthew. In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus delivers a powerful discourse on worry, emphasizing the importance of faith and trust in God.
Matthew 6:25-34
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
This passage, often referred to as the “Sermon on the Mount,” serves as a foundational teaching on the nature of worry and the importance of focusing on spiritual matters. Jesus encourages his followers to trust in God’s provision and to prioritize their faith over material concerns.
Other biblical passages also address the issue of worry, reinforcing the message of Matthew 6:25-34. For example, in Philippians 4:6, the apostle Paul writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” This verse emphasizes the importance of prayer and seeking God’s guidance in times of worry.
In conclusion, the phrase “do not worry” is a summary of a broader message found in various biblical passages. While it is not a standalone verse, the teachings of Jesus and Paul provide a strong foundation for understanding the nature of worry and the importance of placing faith in God. As followers of Christ, we are encouraged to trust in God’s provision and to focus on spiritual matters, rather than allowing worry to consume us.
