Hello! Ahh finals are right around the corner! The stress and strain of due dates, exams, and getting ready to move out of college for the summer is all coming quickly. I thought I'd post a little encouragement that gives some practical steps to easing some of that tension we feel when things get difficult. Remember God is bigger than your circumstance!
5 Steps to Coping with Stress as a Christian
#1. Release Frustration
God wants you to be real with Him. Don't try to cover up what's bothering you, be honest with Him. He is your father and He already knows what is in your heart anyway, so just tell Him!
[Psalm 62:8] - Oh my people, trust in Him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.
#2. Resist Becoming Bitter
Did you ever hear the phrase "unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die"? That's what bitterness does to us. In the long run, it will end up hurting us more than the stressor in our life. So release it to Him, let go, and move on!
[Hebrews 12:15] - Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.
#3. Receive Help from Others (lean on them!)
It can be really tempting to isolate ourselves when we are stressed and frustrated, especially when we are at our breaking point. But this is exactly what the enemy wants us to do, so do not be deceived! These are the time when leaning on our good friends is essential. Getting around good influences and Christian friends help pick us back up. Let them be there!
[Galatians 6:2] - Share each others burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.
[1 Thessalonians 5:11] - So encourage each other and build one another up, just as you are already doing.
#4. Set Focus on Christ
Don't tell your God how big your problem is, tell your problem how BIG your God is!! Remember the three R's: Read His word, Remember His goodness, and Rely on His power. Allow the Holy Spirit to work in you.
[Philippians 3:14] -I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
#5. Refuse to give Up!
We are a resilient people with an almighty God! Getting this in perspective is mind-blowing. There is no limit to what He can do when we take Him at His word.
[Psalm 31:24] - Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!
So as the month of April is coming to an end and summer is knocking at your door. Remember these principles and keep your eyes above the waves. He is your anchor and support. Stress is no match for our Heavenly Father!
-love, Anjelica
