We live in a society where stress abounds. People handle stress differently and different situations often bring out sides of individuals that are uncharacteristic. How do you throw off the grips of fear and anxiety? Start by telling yourself the truth and give your stress to God. Drinking tea, practicing yoga and meditation, listening to music and going on a walk through a nature trail are all forms of stress relief, but only God can help you solve your problems.
Here are eight stress-relieving thoughts today.
8. Sometimes We have to Wait
There is a theme of waiting on God’s timing in the Bible. It you are becoming impatient think of David waiting over 20 years to become king of Israel, Abraham and Sarah waited until they were very old to have a baby and Joseph waited in jail for three years until Pharaoh had the dream he interpreted and Joseph’s life changed.
7. Everything is All Planned Out Based on God’s Timing
God has the timing all worked out in your life, so stop stressing out! It’s easy to think we can control everything with cell phones, computers and quick modes of transportation, but it’s more relieving to rely on God. Saul was determined to kill Christians, but God had a more fulfilling plan when He transformed him into Paul.
6. Pray to Receive Instant Stress Relief
An easy way to reduce stress is to pray about it. David was in dire situations and running for his life for years. His best friend’s father tried killing him and he had many enemies in Ziklag after the women and children were taken captive. God redeemed him and knew what was just around the corner.
5. God Can Heal You from PTSD
You are not alone if you suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). God is all knowing and understands the anger and frustration you or a loved one endures. Jesus is waiting with open arms to walk with you and show empathy so you can be healed. God is in the business of redeeming His children. God will also provide resources to help in the healing process so we would encourage you to also seek professional help if you are struggling with PTSD.
4. God Will Turn Fear into Peace
Fear can quickly be turned into peace when you allow God in. Deuteronomy 31:8 states, “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
3. You are Surrounded with Blessings
Look around and write out your blessings. A heart of thankfulness will ease your fears and anxiety that are prominent with stress. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” You don’t have to live life in a constant state of burnout!
2. It’s Not Your Fault You are in Pain
You are not alone in the pain you are experiencing and many times it’s not based on a consequence from your actions. Job lost animals, children and servants in one day as a test from Satan; not to mention, his wife and friends did not stick by his side. Jesus experienced the most physically and spiritually painful death for our sins. God created pain for a reason and it often leads us to develop a stronger relationship with Him.
1. God ALWAYS Speaks the Truth
Satan will feed you lies if you let him. He is the master deceiver and is cunning and crafty in his work. Identify the lies before they overtake you, such as “I’m going to fail,” “My child never listens,” “My day is going to be miserable.” Believing these lies allows Satan to guide your steps. Psalm 15:1-2 says, “O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill? He who walks blamelessly and does what is right and speaks truth in his heart.”
As a Christian, you will be called to endure life’s struggles, but God doesn’t want you to be alone in this. He will place the right people in your life and He has given you the gift of a relationship with Jesus. What other truths do you tell yourself to relieve stress?
Article by Elise Cleary
I am a Christian writer and editor that lives in northern Michigan and thoroughly enjoy music, movies, TV shows, books and other entertainment with a Christian focus. My favorite song is "Oceans" by Hillsong United because it reminds me that has big plans for me and everyone else who puts their trust in Him. There are many movies that have impacted my life, but a few include God's Not Dead, The Shunning and Letters to God. I also write for www.faithandentertainment.com and love connecting with readers, so please don't hesitate to contact me! When I'm not writing I enjoy watching movies and laughing with my busy toddler and husband.
