Stress Less and Trust More

In today’s society, stress is taking a toll on our minds and bodies. Americans are swallowing billions of tranquilizers, barbiturates and amphetamines. The effects of stress are evidenced by the millions of dollars spent by the medical community on the treatment of high blood pressure, stomach ulcers and heart disease. Countless other illnesses can be traced back to stress. In fact, much of the medication prescribed today is to help relieve stress and the resulting headaches and pains associated with it. In addition, the consumption of alcohol is at an all time high.

We deal with stress everyday. It’s not going to go away. And there is no way that we can handle it effectively without God. God’s Word says that we can cast all of our cares on Him because He cares for us. He said "all" of them, not some of them. Therefore, when we pick and chose what we want to give to God and what we want to keep, things can easily spin out of hand.

Stress is officially defined as a physical, chemical or emotional factor that causes physical or mental tension. In a nutshell, stress is mental or emotional strain. Anything that has the potential to steal our peace and joy, and eventually compromise our health may be considered a source of stress.

Sometimes we do way too much work and not enough play. We are more pessimistic and negative, and in general that makes life so much worse. A positive attitude is much better. We will also feel a lot better if we can take a nap or go to bed early three or four times a week. Proper rest helps lower stress.

Now it is true that sometimes we have no control over stress. Things like traffic jams, bill paying, grief associated with the loss of a loved one and prolonged illnesses can really wear on us. But we do have control over significant portions of our lives.

Stress reduction does not happen overnight. It is more than likely something that we learn over time. As we renew our minds and began making better choices, the effects of stress are reduced. It may be hard at first, but it can be done. Remember, all things are possible with God. So trust God more and live with less stress.

By: Lindia Brown