Not Work, But Worry Poem
The poem "Not Work, But Worry" highlights how worry, not work, drains joy and peace.
Updated January 23, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer
Life often feels heavy, but have you ever paused to consider what truly weighs us down? The poem Not Work, But Worry shines a light on a truth many overlook. It is not the tasks we tackle or the work we do that burdens our hearts. It is the worry we carry. This poem reminds us how worry steals our joy, interrupts our rest, and clouds our faith.
As you read, take a moment to reflect. Are you letting worry take a toll on your life? Let this poem encourage you to release those burdens and trust in God’s plan.
Not Work, But Worry
It is not the work, but the worry.
That wrinkles the smooth, fair face;
That blends gray hair with the dusky
And robs the form of its grace;
That dims the luster and sparkle
Of eyes that were once so bright.
But now are heavy and troubled,
With a weary, despondent light
It is not the work, but the worry,
That drives all sleep away;
As we toss and turn and wonder
About the cares of the day,
Do we think of the hands' hard labor
Or the steps of the tired feet?
Ah, no! but we plan and ponder
How both ends can be made to meet.
It is not the work, but the worry,
That makes us sober and sad;
That makes us narrow and sordid
When we should be merry and glad.
There's a shadow before the sunlight,
And even a cloud in the blue;
The scent of the roses is tainted,
The notes of the song are untrue.
It is not the work, but the worry,
That makes the world grow old;
That numbers the years of its children
Ere half the story is told;
That weakens their faith in Heaven
And the wisdom of God's great plan.
Ah, 'tis not the work, but the worry,
That breaks the heart of man!
Key Messages in This Poem
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Worry Steals Our Joy
The poem emphasizes that it is not the physical labor of work that burdens us, but the constant worry that dims our happiness. Worry robs the brightness from our eyes, the grace from our demeanor, and even the enjoyment of life's simple pleasures.
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Sleepless Nights from Anxiety
Worry keeps us awake at night, not the effort of our hands or the miles we walk. Instead, it's the endless thoughts of how to make ends meet and the mental strain of planning and pondering that drive away our peace.
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Worry Ages the Spirit
The weight of worry not only brings sadness but also ages us prematurely, making life feel heavier than it needs to be. It clouds our faith in God's plan and saps the hope and energy we need to live fully and joyfully.
This poem is a powerful reminder that while work may tire the body, it's the burden of worry that truly drains the soul.
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Conclusion
Worry can feel like a heavy load because it follows us into quiet moments and keeps our minds busy when we need rest. This poem reminds us that hard work can tire the body, but worry can drain the heart. When concerns rise, we can pause, pray, and take one small step at a time. Trust that God sees what you are facing. Ask Him for wisdom, peace, and strength for today.
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