Stress: What do you do when it begins to consume your life? This is a question that has been running through my mind for years. Everyone is unique in their ways of
handling stress and it takes a lot of time to figure out what methods work for you. Stress comes in different forms which may mean using different strategies to cope with it.
I have learned that there is a big difference between "stress" and being "stressed out". Stress can be good at times, and even if it is difficult stress, it can be handled in a way that makes it good. Being stressed out is when the stress is handled without care. The stress is held inside and one may become anxious and uneasy. When stress becomes internal, it begins to pile up and other things that do not need to be stressful become stressful. This is something that I have been learning to cope with.
I tend to let things pile up so much within me that my anxiety and "stressed out" feeling puts me in a state of panic. I forget to breath. Coping with stress is something that I have really been working on. I feel that it is interfering with my relationship with God as well as other important relationships and responsibilities. When it gets to the point that it interferes with relationships (especially between God), there needs to be a change. A change within me that decides not to let myself get so stressed out. What can I do? If you are struggling with this, what can you do? In order to find new methods to cope, I looked within the hobbies and talents that God has given me. I have found:
1. Art. Even though drawing/ painting isn't my "calling" it sure does relax me. When I feel stress coming on, I take some time for myself just to do my favorite crafts.
2. Talking about it. I am never in the mood to talk about my problems, but just letting someone know what is going through my head helps. I know that I am in danger if I keep it inside.
3. Writing about something encouraging. It gets my mind off of things, and helps me focus on something pure.
4. Talking myself through things. I have to tell myself "it's okay, don't stress- see the good". It's very helpful to talk myself through the situation because if I don't, I only see the harm in the stress.
5. Pray- "ask and you shall recieve, seek and you will find, knock and the door shall be open unto you."
God says: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." -Phil 4:6-7
It is so important to cast all of our cares upon Jesus. It's a learning process, but it is possible :0)
Lord,
Thank you for taking up our burdens. Please help us cope with stress in a way that is pleasing to you. I love you, Lord.
-Amen
