A righteous, honest, and faithful worker rides on a motorbike to work, while a corrupt, wicked exploiter colleague rides in his fancy car. Bribe, corruption, and commission have made him super rich. The righteous person could be tempted to fret and envy his colleague. To do so is foolishness, frustration, and failure. David had every reason to fret and envy; he was a victim of Saul. However, he counsels people of God not to fret and envy the evildoers. (Psalms 37:1)
Be cool: The word “fret” literally means to get heated. It is common to advise people who are tense or stressed to stay cool.
Worry: Fret also means to worry. The Lord taught his disciples by worrying no one can add even an hour to their lifespan. For an anxious mind, worry could ask a taunting question: Am I a loser? Am I missing out? Those who prioritize the Kingdom of God will not lack anything. (Matthew 6:27,33)
Anger: To fret means to become angry. The anger could be directed against wicked individuals, erroneous systems, corrupt bosses who allow evil to thrive, an insensitive society, and even God. Such anger could turn violent against wrongdoers, and even forsake and shipwreck the faith.
Vexed: Continuously watching the wicked flourish could be a vexation of the soul. Righteous Lot was tormented by what he saw, heard, and experienced in Sodom. (II Peter 2:8)
Heartburn: When unrighteousness increases, the upright people are persecuted, and it causes heartburn to the saints of God. Sometimes it seems to hopeless situation.
Wait and win: Campbell Morgan writes: “It is wrong; it is harmful; it is needless. Let the trusting wait. Events will justify the action.” Trusting God for His attributes and actions is important. First, God is Sovereign, he allows the wheat and weeds to flourish until the time of harvest. (Matthew 13:30) Second, God is wise, and all that happens is according to His divine plan and purpose, though we do not know the whole picture. Third, God will bring out good to those who love Him. (Romans 8: 28)
Do I fret?