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Not Work, But Worry Poem
Read Not Work, But Worry, a thoughtful poem that reminds us how worrying can take more out of us than the work we do.
We all have responsibilities, and some days the work seems never-ending. Yet, have you ever noticed how thinking about what might happen can leave you more tired than actually doing the work?
The poem Not Work, But Worry reminds us that while hard work may tire our bodies, constant worry can rob us of our peace, our sleep, and even our enjoyment of life's simple blessings.
As you read these verses, think about the concerns you may be carrying. We cannot always change our circumstances, but we can choose how we respond to them. May this poem encourage you to do what you can today, let go of what you cannot control, and trust God with tomorrow.
Updated October 8, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Not Work, But Worry
Poet: Unknown
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 Reflections In This Poem
-
Worry Takes Away Our Joy
When we spend too much time thinking about what might go wrong, we can miss the good things happening around us. The poem reminds us not to let worry take over our days.
-
Worry Can Steal Our Rest
We may finish our work, but our thoughts can keep going long into the night. Learning to put our concerns aside can help us find the rest we need.
-
Trust God With Tomorrow
We cannot know everything the future will bring, and worrying will not change that. Faith reminds us to do our best today and trust God with what lies ahead.
Popular Pages
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Enjoy
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Conclusion
Not Work, But Worry reminds us that work is a part of life, but carrying tomorrow's troubles today can make our burdens feel much heavier. Worry can take away the joy of the present moment without solving the problems we are concerned about.
When worry begins to fill your thoughts, remember that you do not have to figure everything out at once. Take one day at a time, do what you can, and ask God for the wisdom and strength you need. May you find peace in knowing that tomorrow does not have to steal the blessings of today.
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