Handling Stress

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!” Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else -- to the nearby villages -- so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons. (Mark 1:35–39)
 
Stress is an inevitable part of life. When we find ourselves in stressful situations (like the ones we are experiencing now across our nation), God wants us to handle stress in a healthy way.

Of all the ways we can deal with stress, the best way to handle stress is to utilize the right disciplines. When you practice the right disciplines, people will want what you have to give, and you will be ready to give of yourself.

Jesus modeled this for us perfectly during His time on earth. He took time away from everyone to spend time with the Father. He eliminated all distractions, taking His focus off of things that could drain Him. Instead, He focused on what could fill Him up, and that was time with God. If Jesus (of all people) could practice this discipline, then surely, we can do the same.

Think about it. Jesus was a very busy man. People were constantly pulling Him in several different directions, all day, every day. His attention was being drawn everywhere, but He was still very intentional about paying attention to His Father every single day.

What about you? I realize many things are happening in our world right now. Your attention and focus are being pulled in many directions. However, are you taking time to practice the right disciplines? Are you prioritizing spending time with your Heavenly Father? If not, I encourage you to start right now. Don’t go another day without carving out time to talk to, worship, and listen to the Lord. He doesn’t want you to stay stressed. Instead, He desires to help you navigate through this uncertain and difficult time.
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2 Comments


Betty Jane Laughlin - April 1st, 2023 at 6:26am

May I draw closer to Him every day. And start each day with Him and be refreshed

Lincoln Murdoch - April 1st, 2023 at 7:16am

Excellent reminder Pastor Curt! Thank you.

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