Hebrews 12:2 Looking away (from all that will distract) to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith (giving the first incentive for our belief) and is also its Finisher (bringing it to maturity and perfection). He, for the joy (of obtaining the prize) that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Looking away from all that will distract you is not easy task in this day and age. We are inundated with the pressure to keep up, be better, work harder, and do more. This all leads us to sleep less, worry more, eat worse, and exercise is nonexistent.
Stress negatively affects our heart and blood vessels, brain structures and mental health, mood, immune system and sleep. It can cause overeating or undereating, headaches, nausea, acid reflux, and much more! However, we act like we think we are invincible and this won’t happen to us.
We all want less stress in our lives; however, we don’t take action to reduce the stress! It’s like the old adage that says, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.” Are you hoping that your stress will go away but not purposefully taking steps to make that happen? What must you do to reduce the amount of stress in your life? Have a talk with your boss? Slow down the amount of activities in which your kids are involved? Cut out TV and social media time so you can meal plan and exercise?
God’s prescription
God aptly writes in His Word that we are to enjoy the work you do here on earth. Whatever work you do, do your best. (Ecc. 9:9-10 NCV) Enjoying the work we do doesn’t just include our occupation, but everything including eating, drinking, and exercising. By correctly reprioritizing our life to what God calls and asks us to do, we immediately de-stress!
By taking one day at a time and trusting God completely, the stresses of life become manageable because we know that the Creator of the universe is in control and He knows what is best for us.
One of the biggest excuses I hear from people regarding their health is that they don’t have time! However, when we go a little deeper, it’s not a matter of not having time – we all have the same 24 hours in a day – but it’s more about priorities and who they are trying to please. What would happen if you started living your life to please God instead of your boss, your spouse, your friends and your children?
Go ahead and make a list of all the stressors in your life that need to change. Pray about them and ask God to give you the courage to follow His leading in making the healthy changes. Read Scripture and you will find answers to tough questions you might have in making the life changes happen.
Prayer starter: Dear Lord, I ask for your forgiveness in trying to control my own life without giving much thought to your commands. I humbly ask that you help me enjoy life everyday by showing me what changes to make and then helping me make them. I trust You as You grow my faith through this process. Thank you Lord for your love and guidance.