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 4:6-7)
I was watching television not long ago, and they were doing a report about how people today are experiencing more stress in their lives than ever before. They talked about Japan, where some workers are dying because they’re working upwards of 17 hours a day. And here in the U.S., three-quarters of Americans are currently experiencing physical symptoms of stress.
I believe that one of the biggest reasons for this epidemic is that so many today live under an illusion of rest. They think, “Oh, I get 7 or 8 hours of sleep, so I’m rested.” But real rest and rejuvenation doesn't come by sleeping. It comes by having someone who can take your burdens away and give you peace.
Now don’t get me wrong here, you need sleep. In fact, you also need to be taking planned time off from your daily job to recuperate from those daily stresses. But the best remedy to stress doesn't come from a few days away. It comes from God. He’s the only one who can truly give you peace that surpasses all understanding.
So if you’re dealing with stress, let God know because you’re promised that when you do, His perfect peace will overcome you and your heart and mind will be guarded in Christ Jesus!
Getting rid of stress is about more than just taking a break. Give your anxieties to God and let His peace fill you!
