The dictionary states that fretting is “an irritated state of mind or expression of annoyance; vexation; discontent or the like.” We can easily be pulled into fretting, as we look around at politics, or feel agitated at the kids, family members, friends, coworkers, or even an enemy. When we fret, the Bible tells us, it will only lead us in the wrong direction, away from a solution, and cause our discontent to escalate. When we fret about people, we negatively go on and on about what they say, do, or don’t do. To avoid getting stuck in fretting, we must run to the Lord… tell him about it all… until we find the grace to release our unpleasant feelings… letting go of the annoyance. This encounter with Jesus will enable our soul to focus on God’s ability to set us free from the negative power of fretting that works to bring us down. We will find rest in our spirit, and be able to calm down, and put our focus back on trusting God to work things out in our lives and the lives of others.

“Fret not yourself—it tends only to evildoing” (Psalm 37:8b).