Can concern over one's salvation ever be counterproductive?

dms1972 said:

A bit of a strange question perhaps. But I was thinking about this, and how if one is not yet saved or when one is lacking assurance of salvation, focus tends to be on oneself. I struggle a lot with this (self-preoccupation) because I think one can lose ones salvation, and indeed question whether I am a christian at all but the self-preoccupation results in anxiety. If I could get my focus off myself I believe it would help.

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I believe that people have to find balance in how they self-exam theirselves. Its good to be aware and take time to spiritually develop. But part of doing that is not only so that you can be save, but to also reach out and then help others to be save and disciple. When you focus on others, the anxiety of self seems to fade.

Jesus prayed for Paul that not only that he is strengthen, but that when he is saved that he goes and strengthen others as well. (Luke 22:32)

So it would help to lay out how much time you need to self-exam, and then set up how much time you need to counsel others. Give yourself a game plan, give it structure.

dms1972 said:

but the self-preoccupation results in anxiety. If I could get my focus off myself I believe it would help.

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May I suggest looking at what Jesus has done for you.
He left his position as the 2nd person in the trinity, the worship of angels to become a baby in a poor working class family in the backend of an empire.

He taught, did miracles, showed love for those he met and was rejected and betrayed.

His trial was unjust, he was beaten by the entire company of guards, flogged with a cat o nine tai;ls( roman version ) before having his arms nailed to a cross and his feet to the upright.
The only way he could breath was to take his weioght off his arms by pressing down on his feet.
When his leggs gave way his weight falling on his arms would drive the breath out of his lungs.
He endured this for 6 hours.

He did this because he loves you.

Do you love him?

Having done this for you do you think he is going to let you drift away?

That some silly thought or idea of yours is going to so repulse him that he cannot stand to see you?

Review what Jesus has done for you.
Review the historical fact for Christianity.
Trust Jesus to do what he has said he will do, which is save youand show your love for him by your obedience to his commands.

I don't think it is possible to be overly concerned about our spiritual condition. After all, the Bible is frightening in its condemning language. The law will not save anyone, it only proves that we are hopelessly lost.
However, the Gospel is about what Jesus has done, is doing, and will do for those that trust in Him.
He is in control of our destinies and will make sure that all things come together for our salvation.
Life is like the storm-tossed sea. Our best and only chance of reaching the shore is by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the Master of the wind and the waves.

God moves in a mysterious way
his wonders to perform;
he plants his footsteps in the sea,
and rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines
of never-failing skill
he treasures up his bright designs,
and works his sov'reign will.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
the clouds ye so much dread
are big with mercy, and shall break
in blessings on your head.

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
but trust him for his grace;
behind a frowning providence
he hides a smiling face.

His purposes will ripen fast,
unfolding ev'ry hour;
the bud may have a bitter taste,
but sweet will be the flow'r.
--William Cowper, 1774

Paul warns all BACs ...
"Work out your own salvation
with fear and trembling." (Philippians 2:12)

I'm very disappointed that no one told Paul that
THIS KIND OF TALK IS COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE!