It’s a very popular expression. It can be used to be prepared (in the sense of: To be on the safe side), or out of worry (that is: What if such an unfortunate thing were to happen…). Being prepared is good, but not being worried.

Nobody likes to be caught off guard by unfortunate circumstances. Even Jesus encouraged us to be prepared. “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish’?” (Luke 14:28-30 NKJV). In fact, the expression “lest” appears nearly a hundred times in the Bible. It is used as advice to avoid death, failure, sin, and so on. It is not used to create fear, but to help us remain vigilant.

That is somewhat reminiscent of the expression “the fear of the Lord”, which does not mean being afraid of God, but rather respecting Him and giving Him the reverence He deserves. Similarly, when the Bible advises us to do something or avoid something else “lest,” it is not to create anxiety within us, but to warn us of danger and protect us from it.

Being prepared means constructively preparing for various situations. That should not leave us with negative feelings, but rather, should motivate us to action. Worrying paralyzes us, makes us view the future pessimistically, and disturbs our souls. That is precisely what God wants us to avoid. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV).

Resolve to examine your heart when you utter a “just in case”, or even a simple “what if”. In your thoughts, are you being forward-thinking or worried? “What if I don’t find a husband…” Are you thinking this constructively (by responding with enriching projects to pursue as Single)? Or are you saying it negatively (by responding fatalistically that you will be lost and without resources)? And the same applies to all other “just in case” or “what if”. “What if my father doesn’t recover from his illness…” “What if I don’t get my promotion at work…” If your heart is not at peace, reject these thoughts.