In 2020 we felt the ground shifting under feet as never before. We were stressed because of the Covid pandemic. We were stressed about our jobs and finances because many couldn’t go to work. Our kids couldn’t go to school. Our businesses were slowly going down the tubes. Now in 2021 we are still going though the after effects and it seems it’s not over yet.
Even without Covid there are always stresses in our lives. There are positive stresses like a new house or a new baby. We grow when there are stresses in our lives, both positive and negative. We can fight it or try to run from it, but the best way to get through any stress is to turn to Jesus. He will give you strength.
The theme of the book of Philippians is instructions on walking the walk. Despite the circumstance in which this book was written, joy is all over this letter to the Philippians. Paul says to follow his example. “Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you….. But our citizenship is in heaven.” – Philippians 3:17, 20.
When you don’t know Jesus, there is a void in your life. Believers have a citizenship in heaven and their lives should reflect that. We are given choices daily. We should not live as world does. We don’t identify with the world or its culture. We are set apart and identify with Christ.
Are you choosing to live as world does?
Paul tells us to show gentleness to all and to live a life of prayer. We are to be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. We are to rejoice in all things. When you feel stressed, worried, fearful, or sorrowful, rejoice by looking outside your circumstance. “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 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.” - Philippians 4:4-7.
To know Him and to be known by Him your stress will be replaced with Joy. It’s in Him we find real peace and real joy. It’s easy to give in to fear, but don’t give into the lies of the enemy. Guard your heart and your mind in Jesus and be content in every situation. “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13. God will meet all your needs. “And my god will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19.
Paul speaks of joy or rejoicing 18 times in Philippians. He speaks of the “joy in faith” in Phil. 1:25. Jesus brings joy! Salvation gives birth to joy and receiving God’s grace produces joy. When a person comes to the grace and truth of Jesus, there is real genuine joy. It’s not superficial feeling of happiness. Happiness is based on circumstances, but joy is about Christ.
As a believer, you have a testimony of joy that is in Jesus. Access that joy in Him. When you peruse Him, you will find that joy. We have to be disciplined and pursue it just like an athlete trains to be the best in his sport. It takes practice and strength. Jesus can give you that strength.
“I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” - 2 Cor. 12:10
How do others see you act during stress?
Stress derails our relationship with God. It distracts us from His provision, providence, and goodness. So what should one do when stressed?
Worship: God is always worthy of all our praise.
Turn on some worship music: There nothing like listening to uplifting music, which is a form worship.
Pray: This seems obvious, but it can be harder than it seems. When praying, we are focused on the Lord and away from what stresses us.
Seek guidance: Reach out to supportive people. The body of Christ is there to give us strength and encouragement.
Read Scripture: God’s Word reminds us to not worry but to trust God.
Exercise/Diet/Rest: Exercise at least 30 minutes a day, eat a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep.
Trust God: God is in control. You are not, so trust in Him for He knows what you need better than you do.
Remember we serve a mighty, all-powerful God who promises to work all things for the good of those who love Him.
Join me here next time -- I encourage you to trust in Jesus.
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