Stress (aka – pressure) can be a good thing if it motivates us to get things done and to face the realities of our life. But stress can also hurt when it builds up without resolution, when there seems to be no relief from the internal and external pressures of life.
Stress is to peace what darkness is to light, but we can find the greatest peace amid the most intense periods of our lives. When we see stress approaching, believe in advance that God can bring peace with his presence and the truth of his Word.
Here are some verses and prayers for when you’re getting stressed.
Not In the Earthquake
“A great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a gentle whisper.” (1 Kings 19:11-12)
Prayer: Lord, sometimes it feels like earthquakes and strong winds are exploding all around me. My world doesn’t seem safe and I just want to run away. I need your patience and strength, God; help me to stand still and switch off the racing thoughts in my head so I can hear you whisper to me with your gentle voice; Amen.
Running into Stress
“I called out to the LORD, out of my distress, and he answered me; I cried and you heard my voice.” (Jonah 2:2)
Prayer: God; Forgive me when I not only run from stress, but ignore your direction, making things worse for myself and others. If I had just done the right thing, I wouldn’t be in this dilemma. You will do what it takes to get my attention and put my life on course for your glory and my good; Amen.
Hurt… again?
“Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.” (Psalm 119:165)
Prayer: Dear God, I’m facing a difficult situation involving telling someone the truth. I have told them before, and will probably have to tell them again; their behaviour is hard on others. At some point, I’ll have to become firmer. Meanwhile, you have said: “Do not return evil for evil” but am I making a difference? Am I just setting myself up for more grief? I know that this is not the last time I will be hurt for doing what is right, but Lord, please give me the courage and confidence to face an emotional attack; Amen.
So, as we open our eyes to the world around us and the people in it, sometimes we know that things will get worse before they get better. In the training ground of regular life, let the timeless teaching of Jesus take hold so firmly that we will experience a wonderful rooting and anchoring in truth that brings life abundant and free!
L’article <b>When You Feel Stressed</b> est apparu en premier sur Cornwall Seaway News.
