“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)
In today’s world, the fear of missing out (FOMO) often steals our joy, planting seeds of dissatisfaction in our hearts. Watching others achieve milestones, acquire possessions, or enjoy experiences can make us feel like we are falling behind. This longing, left unchecked, robs us of peace and contentment.
Jesus called this ‘covetousness’ and warned of its dangers. “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses” (Luke 12:15, NKJV).
Covetousness attaches happiness to what we don’t have, deceiving us into thinking possessions, achievements, or experiences will fulfil us—when only God can. This misplaced longing creates dissatisfaction, leading us to chase what cannot satisfy.
James reminds us, “Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?” (James 4:1, NKJV).
At its core, FOMO reflects a fear of missing something essential. It preys on our vulnerabilities—today it might be someone’s career success; tomorrow, their relationships. Our fleshy desires tempt us to compare, covet, and chase after fleeting things, believing idols satisfy.
The Apostle Paul speaks to this in Philippians 4:11–12: “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound (NKJV).” Contentment in Christ frees us from FOMO’s grip, redirecting our focus to what truly matters.
FOMO’s greatest lie is that we are missing out on something good. But as believers, we trust in God’s sovereignty, knowing He works all things together for good (Romans 8:28). Even when opportunities pass us by, His plans are perfect, and nothing happens outside His control.
Gratitude is a powerful weapon against FOMO. We reclaim our joy by shifting our focus from what we lack to what God has provided.
Jesus assures us, “Your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:32–33 NKJV).
FOMO tempts us to believe saying “no” to opportunities means losing out. But ‘missing out’ on things that steal our joy—comparison, covetousness, misplaced priorities—brings freedom. As new creations in Christ, we are no longer slaves to fleeting pleasures (2 Corinthians 5:17). Instead, we can embrace JOMO—the joy of missing out—because God’s timing is perfect.
True joy comes from trusting God and focusing on eternal treasures. No possession, achievement, or experience compares to the blessings in Him. When tempted to dwell on what you lack, remember: God’s plans for you are good and eternal (Jeremiah 29:11).
No fear of missing out can steal the joy of a life anchored in God Him. Rest in the assurance that His timing is perfect, and His blessings far surpass anything this world offers.
Bible Reading Plan: Genesis 31-32, Matthew 10:24-11:6