Why not worry about others' success?
Why is it important not to "fret over those who prosper"?

Reading the Key Verse

“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when men prosper in their ways, when they carry out wicked schemes.” (Psalm 37:7)


Why We Tend to Fret

• We witness dishonest gain and feel justice is delayed.

• We compare our circumstances with theirs and slip into envy (Psalm 73:3).

• We assume prosperity equals God’s approval, forgetting that appearances deceive (Jeremiah 12:1–2).


God’s Perspective on the Prosperous Wicked

• Their success is temporary: “For they will wither quickly like grass” (Psalm 37:2).

• Their end is certain: “For the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be extinguished” (Proverbs 24:19–20).

• God stores up wrath for unrepentant oppressors (James 5:1–5).


Four Reasons Fretting Is Harmful

1. It breeds anger and harms us: “Do not fret—it can only bring harm” (Psalm 37:8).

2. It questions God’s justice and timing (Habakkuk 2:3).

3. It distracts from obedience—worry replaces worship (Matthew 6:24–33).

4. It steals peace promised to those who trust: “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast mind” (Isaiah 26:3).


Promises That Anchor Our Hearts

• The righteous will “inherit the land” (Psalm 37:9, 29).

• “The LORD upholds the righteous” (Psalm 37:17).

• “Better is the little of the righteous than the abundance of many wicked” (Psalm 37:16).

• In God’s sanctuary the end of the wicked becomes clear (Psalm 73:17).


Practical Steps to Replace Fretting with Faith

1. Trust: “Trust in the LORD and do good” (Psalm 37:3).

2. Delight: “Delight yourself in the LORD” (Psalm 37:4).

3. Commit: “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him” (Psalm 37:5).

4. Rest: Choose stillness—refuse the mental replay of others’ success (Psalm 37:7).

5. Remember: Meditate on God’s ultimate justice and your eternal inheritance (1 Peter 1:4).

6. Act: Keep doing good, blessing even those who misuse wealth (Romans 12:17–21).

How does Psalm 37:7 connect with Philippians 4:6-7 on anxiety?
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