Weighed Down by Life’s Anxieties

As noted, toiling to fill our family’s basic physical needs often brings anxieties and can weaken our view of spiritual values. (Matt. 13:22) Marek, mentioned earlier, explains: “When my business failed, I decided to find a well-paying job abroad. I left just for three months, then for another three months, and so on, with short intervals back home. My unbelieving wife suffered emotionally from that.”

Family life was not the only thing that suffered. “In addition to long hours of work in oppressive heat,” continues Marek, “I was exposed to vulgar people who were striving to exploit others. They acted like common gangsters. I felt depressed and dominated. Not even having time to take care of myself, I began to doubt my ability to serve others.”

The sad consequences of Marek’s decision should move us to stop and think. Even if it seems that moving abroad would solve financial difficulties, would it not create other problems? For instance, what would happen to the spiritual and emotional well-being of our family? Would such a move lead to the severing of our ties with the congregation? Would it not deprive us of the privilege of ministering to fellow believers?​—1 Tim. 3:2-5.

Marek gives this warning for those who might consider traveling abroad in search of a better-paying job: “When abroad, it is very easy to fall into the traps of this wicked world. Poor knowledge of the local language hinders communication with others. You may return home with money, but you also have spiritual wounds that can take a long time to heal.”