Q & A: What Can I Do to Reduce Stress in My Life?
Work pressures. Family commitments. Church outreaches. All these things are well and good. They may even be God-ordained, but if you find yourself feeling the effects of too many commitments, then it’s time to de-stress your life. Jesus said in John 10:10, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” Don’t let stress keep you from having an abundant life. Implement these five steps and get your life moving in the right direction!
Make Time for the Word
Sounds counterproductive, doesn’t it? You believe you don’t have enough time to accomplish everything on your to-do list, but in reality, the only way to truly de-stress your life is to get God’s perspective on it.
Just like gas in a car, the Word fuels your life. Without it, you’ll coast along for a while, but eventually, you’ll run out of gas. Life will begin to feel overwhelming. So spend time in the Word daily. Let it correct you as you meditate on it and act as though it is true—because it is!
Recognize the Work of the Enemy
There will always be unexpected developments in your day—a last-minute meeting at work, snacks that you promised (but forgot!) to bring to your grandson’s Little League game, a clothes dryer that suddenly quits. That’s life. But there are other times when the devil deliberately attacks you. As you spend time in the Word, you’ll be able to recognize those attacks for what they are. When he attacks, resist him and he will flee (James 4:7).
Protect Your Mind
There are stressors all around you. With all that busyness swirling around you, you must make the quality decision to protect your mind and heart (Proverbs 4:23). That means turning off the television, connecting with strong, godly friends and protecting your Bible study time.
De-stress Your Life by Caring for Your Physical Body
Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). If you have let exercise slide because you are too busy to do it, then you open the door to attacks. Care for your body by meditating on healing scriptures, feeding it healthy food and exercising each day.
Cut the Extras
Most likely, if you are battling constant stress, there are too many things vying for your attention. You must determine which things in your life God has given you to do and which things you have added on your own. Press into God for help in determining what it is that He has directed you to do, then do those things first. Everything else is subject to being cut from your schedule.
Jesus died so that you could live an overcoming life. Commit to making time for the Word, recognizing the enemy’s attacks, protecting your mind, caring for your body and cutting the extra things that demand your attention. As you press into the Lord for what you should do each and every day, He will help you de-stress and enjoy your life!