Got Stress? Pray.

Can we talk stress?  You know what I mean: that roiling inner turmoil, that is blinding being in a confusion-making state that takes over our hearts and minds from time to time. We all have been there or currently experiencing it. 

The term “stress” is nothing new to modern life. Stress impacts an individual at various level. Stress prevents your ability to perform well at the workplace. It breeds a sense of fear, anxiety and helplessness. It also inhibits an individual’s ability to socialize and form new relationships. Stress has long been associated with increased risk for illness including serious health problems such as heart disease. The reason? Stress, particularly if it is chronic or prolonged, can weaken the immune system.  And I was one of those people. As my life became more challenging, I internalized the stress of my circumstances, and it really begin to take a toll on my physical body as well as my spirit. While a certain amount of stress is inevitable and in some instances can be a positive force for motivation, we can manage dangerous levels of stress. One major way I relieved the stress was to pray. You see when I was stressed and full of anxiety I was displaying a lack of trust in God. So I had to do as the scripture says, "…take everything to God in prayer" and then implement some practical solutions. 

To manage stress it's important that there is some "soul care". Taking care of your soul is bringing an awareness of when you become annoyed or angry at something trivial or unimportant. Then make a conscious choice to become peaceful. Concentrate your thoughts on matters within your control.

It's also imperative that there is some "body care". This means renewing the mind as Roman 12:2 says, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Relaxing and breathing exercises can help to manage and lower anxiety. Breathe slowly and deeply, before reacting to the that stressful occurrence. And also making sure that you are feeding your body foods that provide nutrients and balance to it. Hunger and dehydration can make you feel more anxious and stressed.

Lastly, perform some "spirit care". The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to pray. Instead of worrying over our problems, further compounding our anxiety and stress, the Bible recommends taking everything to God in prayer. There is a verse in Philippians that offers the comforting promise that as we pray, our minds will be protected by a peace that goes beyond our ability to understand.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7 )

This verse in Philippians offers the comforting promise that as we pray, our minds will be protected by a peace surpasses all understanding. Our faith attaches meaning to events, it will give us hope. It is the ultimate stress reducer. 

So if You Got stress. Pray!

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Enter into Prayer

Dear Lord, 

I'm just having some trouble managing this stressful time in my life. The stress is just getting to be too much for me, and I need your strength to get me through. I confess that I have allowed my stress to cause me to not trust you. Forgive me of my unbelief as I know you are a pillar for me to lean on in tough times, and I pray that you will continue to provide me with ways to make my life a little less burdensome. 

Reading your Word brings comfort, as I ask you to come and take my heavy burdens. I take each burden, one by one, and lay them at your feet. Please carry them for me so that I don't have to. Replace them with your humble and gentle yoke so that I will find rest for my soul today. I receive your gift of peace of mind and heart. Thank you that I can lie down in green pastures and You will restore my soul. 

Father, grant me the peace to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference. I wan to live one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; trusting that You will make all things right if I surrender to Your will.

I cast all of my cares on You because you care for me. (1 Peter 5:7). I pray to feel the peace that passes all understanding and is able to stand in the middle of difficult situations. I pray that peace will guard my heart and mind as You bring me through each day, you provide strength when I feel weak. May I understand your transforming grace as I walk out this life with You. Give me a deeper understanding of Your grace and that it is sufficient to carry me through the most difficult times. I know You will do it because You are the one who relieves me whenever I am in distress. I ask that you reduce the burdens in my life or show me the path to get things done or rid myself of the things weighing me down. Thank you, Lord, for all You do in my life and how You will provide for me, even in these stressful times. 

I give You all the glory! In Jesus' name - I pray. Amen