That is one quote that is easier said than done. As humans, stress, anxiety, and worry are a part of our nature, sometimes a consuming part. Stress not only takes a toll on our mental wellbeing, it can also can cause physical harm in the form of high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, heart attack, strokes, and diabetes. Stress has also been known to cause certain types of cancer to advance and spread at a more rapid rate. However, life doesn’t have to be this way. In fact, God shows us many times in the Bible that this isn’t the way to live and that worry itself is sinful. “And which of you by being anxious can add a cubit to his stature? If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?” Luke 12:25-26. We worry about things as if that worry were going to make great changes in our lives, but the Bible says that it won’t even affect the small things. But don’t be discouraged, God gives us His promises to see us through. “Come unto me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. He promises rest when we feel burdened down and overwhelmed. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.” Psalm 23:1-3. He promises to provide our needs and to restore us. So, how do we do this? Through prayer and gratefulness. “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7. These verses give us hope if we trust Him with our worries, but the quote says to obey. Trusting and depending on God is a form of obedience and this is how simple it is: “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:9. This week when troubles arise, don’t look around, look up!

​

Have an awesome stress-free week!