Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: Faithful Friday

This week has been extremely stressful for me. It has been one of those that has been packed with entirely too much for one person to do. Have you ever been there? I even started to get sick at one point as my body sent a pretty clear message that the stress meter has been on overload for a little too long.

The worst part is that once I realized how stressed I was, I started to stress about how to eliminate the stress! Sheesh! Hopefully I’m not the only one who has ever felt that way. 😉

Once I finally reached the end of my rope, there was noting left to do but give it all to God to sort out. They funny thing about that is as soon as I did the stress started to slip away. It is amazing how when we surrender our stress and leave the sorting out and priority setting to the Lord, how quickly he responds. Sure, there were still many things to be done, but he was able to give me just the amount of clarity of mind and direction to put the joy back into my tasks.

Maybe you’re not feeling at all stressed or anxious right now, but chances are that one day you may. Here are a few verses to focus on during those times when you need peace and direction:

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

I am leaving you with a gift–peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn’t like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
John 14:27 (NLT)

Prayer for Stress and Anxiety:

Lord~

I cannot do all of this all right now. I’m overwhelmed and feel unequipped to face the current stresses of life. I’m coming to you now to lay down my burdens and take upon me, your yoke, for I know that it is gentle and that it will provide relief for my tired mind and heart.

Thank you Jesus for calming my fears and stress filled mind. I trust that you are big enough to handle everything that is going on right now for there is nothing that is too difficult for you.

Amen.

Many blessings to you this week my friends. I pray that the Lord will keep you all in His perfect peace today.