When You're Stressed

In this world of email, blogging, Facebook, MySpace, work, spouse & family, church, friends, children, and a never ending list of other assorted duties we often find ourselves feeling stressed. Being stressed leads to frustration, impatience, pettiness and flippant speech. It is helpful to remind ourselves of a few biblical facts that lead us away from stress and back to the narrow road of godliness.

In whatever situation we're facing, we can be strong and courageous:

...Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. Joshua 1:9

We don't face these situations alone:

...I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5

Knowing we're not alone we, therefore, have no reason to be anxious:

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Php 4:6-7 & Joshua 1:9 above.

Remember, the Lord is in control and guiding our steps:

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Psalm 32:8

We can do all things and should do all things to the glory of God:

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Php 4:13

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. Col. 3:17

Knowing all of these promises we have no need to be downcast but rather have every reason to rejoice:

Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance. Psalm 42:5

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Php 4:4

Be joyful my friends and look to the Lord always for that is where our help comes.

Image credit