How to deal with stress

How to handle stress

“Take therefore no [anxious] thought for the morrow” (Matt. 6:34).

  I. Concentrate on Things That Are Calming

“Whatsoever things are lovely . . . of good report . . . think on these things” (Phil. 4:8).

Today’s society is caught up in noise and confusion. Its music is loud and thunderous; its entertainment is explosive, sometimes destructive.

Deal with stress by concentrating on calming influences. Fellowship with nature. The hills, valleys, and streams bring relaxation.

Listen to the soothing hymns of the church. Pray and fellowship with God while meditating on his promises.

 II. Cooperate with Inevitable Conditions

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Rom. 8:28 NIV).

Many Christians suffer stress because they struggle with and fight against inevitable conditions.

Jesus conquered stress because he did not fret about difficult situations. He simply turned impossibilities into opportunities. We should do likewise.

Sometimes we must accept situations that we are powerless to change, doing our best and trusting God for the rest”

“III. Comfort Others Who Have Complaints

“Who comforteth us . . . that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble” (2 Cor. 1:4).

Many Christians fail to comfort others as they should. They are too concerned about selfish interests.

Jesus cared about the difficulties of others. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and forgave the sinful.

We should get involved in helping the less fortunate also. Comforting others who have problems will also help to solve our own complaints.

IV. Constantly Trust God with All Concerns

“Trust in him at all times” (Ps. 62:8).

If we are to conquer stress, we should be aware of God’s presence at all times. We do not always feel his presence, but through faith we know he is near.

We are able to trust God because we are not alone. He promised, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Heb. 13:5). Practice the presence of God.

We must also yield ourselves to God’s will, letting him do his work through us, carrying the responsibility (see Rom. 6:13).”

Saint