FOMO is an acronym for the “fear of missing out.” Merriam-Webster goes on to describe it as “a fear of not being included in something (such as an interesting or enjoyable activity) that others are experiencing.” FOMO can lead to overly inquisitive behavior as in a person who always has to know every detail of what is going on around them even if, to put it bluntly, it is none of their business. FOMO can result in being so stretched out, trying to keep a finger in every pot, to the extent that being in the moment is seldom experienced. Instead, there is a gnawing feeling of missing out on something better elsewhere.
FOMO may take on the form of discontent. Scripture warns against the love of money and encourages us, instead, to be content with what God has provided, trusting that He will always provide for our needs (Heb. 13:5; 1 Tim. 6:8; Mt. 6:25-34). Materialistic discontent, the fear that we may be missing out because of our pursuit of spiritual riches is allayed by what Jesus said to Peter and the rest of the apostles following His conversation with the rich young ruler. Jesus had plainly told them how difficult it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven – difficult, but not impossible so far as God is concerned (Mt. 19:23-26). Then, Peter asked, “Behold, we have left everything and followed You; what then will there be for us?” (vs. 27). It was then that Jesus lovingly assured the apostles that, in spite of their sacrifices, they would not be missing out. Aside from reigning with Him, Jesus said that “everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters for father or mother or children or farms for My name’s sake, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life” (vss. 28-29). Fear of missing out on something in this life has caused many to miss out on the joyous blessings of sacrificial giving. Because the things of this world are passing away (1 Jn. 2:17), Jesus calls us to store up for ourselves treasures in heaven (Mt. 6:19-21). FOMO is replaced by genuine contentment as we set our minds on things above (Col. 3:2) and yield our hearts to Him in obedient trust.
— Glen Elliott —