Topical Bible: Overmuch Care: Uselessness of

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The concept of "overmuch care" refers to excessive worry or anxiety about life's circumstances, which is often deemed unnecessary and counterproductive from a biblical perspective. Scripture consistently encourages believers to trust in God's provision and sovereignty rather than being consumed by anxiety.

Biblical Exhortations Against Overmuch Care

1. Matthew 6:25-34: In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the futility of worry. He instructs His followers not to be anxious about their lives, including what they will eat, drink, or wear. Jesus emphasizes that life is more than food and the body more than clothing. He points to the birds of the air and the lilies of the field as examples of God's provision, urging believers to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, with the assurance that all these things will be added to them. "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own" (Matthew 6:34).

2. Philippians 4:6-7: The Apostle Paul advises the Philippians to be anxious for nothing. Instead, they are to present their requests to God through prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. The promise that follows is the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guarding their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. This passage underscores the importance of prayer as a remedy for anxiety and the assurance of divine peace.

3. 1 Peter 5:7: Peter encourages believers to cast all their anxiety on God because He cares for them. This verse highlights the personal nature of God's care and the invitation to relinquish burdens to Him, trusting in His concern and provision.

Theological Implications

The biblical teaching against overmuch care is rooted in the understanding of God's character as a loving and sovereign Father. Believers are called to live by faith, trusting in God's goodness and His ability to meet their needs. Overmuch care is seen as a lack of faith and a distraction from spiritual priorities.

Practical Considerations

1. Trust in God's Provision: Believers are encouraged to cultivate a mindset of trust, recognizing that God is aware of their needs and is faithful to provide. This trust is not passive but involves active reliance on God's promises and character.

2. Focus on the Present: Scripture advises against borrowing trouble from the future. By focusing on the present and trusting God for tomorrow, believers can avoid the paralyzing effects of anxiety.

3. Prayer and Thanksgiving: Engaging in regular prayer and expressing gratitude are practical ways to combat overmuch care. By bringing concerns to God and thanking Him for His past faithfulness, believers can experience peace and reassurance.

4. Community Support: The Christian community plays a vital role in supporting individuals who struggle with anxiety. Encouragement, prayer, and practical assistance from fellow believers can help alleviate the burden of overmuch care.

In summary, the Bible presents overmuch care as unnecessary and counterproductive, urging believers to trust in God's provision and sovereignty. Through faith, prayer, and community support, Christians are called to live free from the bondage of excessive worry.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 6:27
Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit to his stature?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 12:25,26
And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Oration on Holy Baptism.
... freedom from earthly slavery, but not to care about heavenly ... to me your pleasures,
and to Him your uselessness. ... Wherefore do not overmuch dread the purification ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/oration xl the oration on.htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... his father did so; he put him out betimes to one of his own acquaintance, and entreated
him of all love that he would take care of his son, and keep him for ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm