Stress

I, like many women, have a HUGE problem with stress. It seems like I am always stressed out over something or another. Most of my stress stems from worldly worries, such as does this person like me, is there dust under my couch, what birthday gift do I have to buy next, what type of jeans are currently in style?

About a month ago, I was browsing around in Half Price Books and came across a self-help book discussing stress. It discussed the many long term implications of stress, including allergies, digestive disorders, anxiety, headaches, heart disease, high blood pressure, insomnia, lowered immunity, and muscular aches.

Thinking of my own problems with stomach ulcers, it dawned on me that I must put a lot of effort towards stressing out in order to cause physical illness to my own body. I realized how useful that energy would be if I put it towards God’s plan instead of stressing out over the worldly worries I am so consumed with.

I concluded that the solution would be to start doing the basic “Christian” acts, I already know I need to do, such as reading my Bible, praying, and helping others. Not only will this help me understand God’s plan for my life, but it will also keep me so preoccupied that I don’t have time to stress over worldly worries.

Memory Verse:
“Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
– Matthew 6:27 (NIV)

Prayer Prompt:
“Dear Lord, You know my struggles and my worries. Please direct my energy away from myself and onto the plans that You have for me. Help me to recognize my worries and to give them over to You. Let me start by giving you…”

Contributing Writer:
Christina L. Ketchum
Christina L Ketchum
Life Branch, Inc.