How many of you out there worry or get stressed out? (Everyone slowly raises their hand). We all do it at some point or another. I have been so guilty of this but I'm learning (remember EVERYTHING is a process) how to over come this.
I read in the book Crazy Love by Fran Chan that "worry implies that we don't quite trust God is big enough, powerful enough, or loving enough to take care of what's happening in our lives." It then goes on to say that "stress says the things we are involved in are important enough to merit our impatience, our lack of grace toward others, or our tight grip of control."
WHOA! I don't know about you, but when I read this I felt convicted on the inside. How dare I say that I love God and that He loves me and will take care of all my needs and then not trust Him to be who He says He is!
We are told in Philippians 4:6-7 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
It also says in1 Peter 5:6-7 "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."
SEE! God loves us and he wants us to come to Him with EVERYTHING. When we focus our attention on Him, it makes the troubles of the world seem not so bad. With Him nothing is impossible!
While we are focusing on God and giving our cares to him, here are a few other things that we can do to help alleviate some of that worry and stress:
1. Are you feeling guilty? In whatever it is, be honest and ask for forgiveness. This will lift what may be a huge burden off of your shoulders.
2. Get some sleep! I know when I am sleep deprived, I tend to stress more and become more anxious. Strive to get those 8 hours that we need in order to function properly.
3. Relax and focus. When setting goals, make them realistic, prepare and focus. Then relax as things fall into place.
4. Listen to great music. Not just music you like, but music that eases your mind and puts you in a happy place.
5. Take time out to do something that you enjoy.
6. Talk it out. Find someone that you know and trust, who will give you a new perspective on whatever it is that you are dealing with. Remember to look for truth and words that are constructive.
7. Exercise! This may be my favorite. I've never heard of anyone finishing a workout and feeling worse than they did before they began. Endorphins Rock!
8. PRAY! Don't let this be your last resort, make it your first. Be faithful and intentional in your prayers. Pray before,during, and after whatever it is your are going through.
9. Give Thanks!
There are lots of things out there that are in and out of our control. If you can do something about it, take action. If you can't do anything about it, then whats the point of worrying.
Jesus said in Luke 12:22-26 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?"
Just by revisiting these few verses, I already feel better about the happenings of my life. I hope this has brought some encouragement to you as well. Remember God is all-knowing and He loves us more that we can ever know. Give all of your cares to Him and be blessed!
With Love Always,
JC
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