Stress. It’s the leading cause of many physical and emotional problems in these busy modern times. Even for Christians.
Eric suffers from stress periodically. When he is feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of life, his observant wife can read the signs in his demeanor and actions. To help relieve his stress, she first hugs him. Then, she gently suggests he spend some time with God.
Often, his first response to her suggestion is to list all the things he needs to do and to tell her that he doesn’t have time. Fortunately, hearing those words from his own mouth is usually enough to help him regain his perspective. He realizes that when he is too busy to spend time with God, he needs to reevaluate his priorities. He is living life in his own strength without dependence on God.
Eric’s wife has the right idea. When we are stressed, we need to go to God. Jesus wants to live His life in and through us. He is the cure for stress. He says in Matthew 6:31-34: “Do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
God knows our needs—all our needs. All we need to do is to submit to Him. That is a sure way to alleviate the stress and worry we feel. As our eyes turn to Him, they will turn away from the stress.
Dear friend, give God daily priority in your life. He doesn’t want to be your helper. He wants to live His life in and through you. Let Hi control your life as you tell Him about the talks before you, and let Him set your priorities.
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened” (Matthew 7:7,8).
By Vonette Bright
©2024 Copyright Bright Media Foundation