“Avoid the Mess that is Stress” by Andrew Ellis


We all have experienced stress during certain situations in our lives. While these situations differ among us what is the ultimate source of our stress? What is it within us that causes us to stress? Are we afraid of what could happen? Are we unsure of what will happen? No matter the source that leads to our stress it is important to not allow it to consume us. We need to remember two things: 1) We need to focus on what we can control. 2) God will not put us through situations we are not capable of handling. In Matthew 6:31-34, Jesus says, “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. “Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”

James 1:12 says, Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

What good does it do for us to walk through life being held down by stress? We can handle any situation we face. Stressful situations are jump bumps in the road in our lives.