Those two words are as different as day and night. God isn’t into anxiety. Rather, He would have us be at rest and eager to see what He has in store for us. Worry is unhealthy, while eager anticipation brings wholesomeness.
Eternal Perspectives by Sally Bair
Eagerness versus Anxiety
Being the word nerd that I am, I tend to edit other people’s writings and spoken words in my mind. One edit I will share has spiritual significance: the difference between the words “eager” and “anxious.” Eager means enthusiastic, impatient, and ardent, whereas anxious describes a state of uneasiness, worry, and apprehension.
I’m reminded of one of my trips to Alaska, where I experienced both emotions. I was eager to dig for clams but anxious about the boat trip across the rough, sea-tossed bay. I was keen to see the mountains but anxious about traveling on the steep, narrow mountain roads. I was eager to see wildlife up close but anxious about seeing it too close—especially after all the reports I'd heard about grizzly-bear and moose-with-baby attacks.
The Bible clearly defines the words eager and anxious. 1 Peter 5:2, written to Christian believers, tells us to care for and serve other believers "…not because you must but because you are willing, as God wants you to be … eager to serve." Titus 2:14 says: "…Jesus Christ … gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good."
Too often, we worry about things when we don't have to. Most of our “what if” thoughts come to nothing. We could, instead, turn our anxiety into eager anticipation of better things ahead, like the bumper crop of corn and other garden veggies we plant.
This is not meant to be a lesson in English grammar but in Biblical principles. It all comes down to a matter of attitude. Shall we choose to be eager about something? Or is it our choice to worry and be edgy about it? We all would be wise to heed Paul the apostle's words from Philippians 4:6: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Paul, a missionary to heathen countries, had every reason to be worried and anxious. He was frequently beaten, imprisoned, and shipwrecked. Yet he admonished the new church in Philippi to not worry about anything. We can choose to follow his example.
Lord, we know that worry and anxiety are unhealthful to our bodies, minds, and souls. Forgive us when we've allowed ourselves to be anxious and worried about situations. Remove that temptation from our minds. Help us to choose eagerness and anticipation in everything we face. Like Paul, give us the will to thank You for whatever comes our way. In Jesus' name, amen.
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