Fretteth
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The term "fretteth" is derived from the verb "fret," which in biblical context often refers to a state of being agitated, worried, or vexed. This term appears in the King James Version of the Bible and is used to describe a condition of emotional unrest or anxiety, often in response to the actions or prosperity of others. In the Berean Standard Bible, the equivalent expressions may use terms like "worry" or "become agitated."

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Psalm 37:1-2 : "Do not fret over those who do evil; do not envy those who do wrong. For they will wither quickly like grass and wilt like tender plants." This passage advises believers not to be consumed with worry or envy over the apparent success of the wicked. The psalmist encourages trust in the Lord and patience, reminding the faithful that the prosperity of the wicked is temporary and fleeting.

2. Psalm 37:7-8 : "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. Refrain from anger and abandon wrath; do not fret—it can only bring harm." Here, the psalmist reiterates the call to patience and trust in God, emphasizing that fretting leads to harm and is counterproductive to a life of faith.

3. Proverbs 24:19-20 : "Do not fret over evildoers, and do not be envious of the wicked. For the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be extinguished." This proverb echoes the sentiments of Psalm 37, reinforcing the idea that the future of the wicked is bleak and that fretting over their temporary success is futile.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the admonition against fretting is rooted in the call to trust in God's sovereignty and justice. Believers are encouraged to maintain their focus on God's promises and His ultimate plan, rather than becoming consumed by the apparent injustices or successes of those who do not follow God's ways. Fretting is seen as a lack of faith and a distraction from the peace that comes from trusting in God's providence.

Practical Application

In practical terms, the biblical exhortation not to fret serves as a reminder to Christians to cultivate a spirit of contentment and trust. By focusing on God's faithfulness and the eternal perspective, believers can find peace amidst life's challenges and uncertainties. The call to refrain from fretting is also an invitation to prayer and reflection, seeking God's guidance and strength to overcome feelings of anxiety and discontent.

Related Concepts

· Trust in God: Fretting is often contrasted with trusting in God, as seen in the repeated encouragements to rely on God's timing and justice.
· Contentment: The biblical call to avoid fretting aligns with the broader theme of contentment, urging believers to find satisfaction in God's provision and plan.
· Patience: Patience is a virtue closely associated with the admonition against fretting, as believers are encouraged to wait on the Lord and His timing.

In summary, the concept of "fretteth" in the Bible serves as a caution against allowing anxiety and envy to disrupt one's faith and peace. It is a call to trust in God's ultimate justice and to maintain a focus on His eternal promises.
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The Pharisee and the Publican
The Pharisee And Publican. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the pharisee and publican/the pharisee and the publican.htm

A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse upon the pharisee.htm

Thesaurus
Fretteth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Fretteth (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 19:3 The foolishness
of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the LORD. ...
/f/fretteth.htm - 6k

Fretting (6 Occurrences)
... to anger" (1 Samuel 1:6, "Her rival provoked her sore, to make her fret"); of
za`aph, "to be sad," "to fret" (Proverbs 19:3, "His heart fretteth against Yahweh ...
/f/fretting.htm - 10k

Fret (9 Occurrences)
... to anger" (1 Samuel 1:6, "Her rival provoked her sore, to make her fret"); of
za`aph, "to be sad," "to fret" (Proverbs 19:3, "His heart fretteth against Yahweh ...
/f/fret.htm - 13k

Fretted (1 Occurrence)

/f/fretted.htm - 7k

Perverteth (7 Occurrences)
... (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). Proverbs 19:3 The foolishness of man perverteth his way:
and his heart fretteth against the LORD. (KJV JPS WBS YLT). ...
/p/perverteth.htm - 8k

Subverteth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Subverteth (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 19:3 The foolishness
of man subverteth his way; And his heart fretteth against Jehovah. (ASV). ...
/s/subverteth.htm - 6k

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