Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Several medical research papers have been published to confirm that stress is the major cause for most chronic illnesses. The American Psychological Association, in their publication says that stress is not a direct disease, but is a massive catalyst for chronic sickness. Stress hikes the cortisol and adrenaline in the body increasing and spreading inflammation. Further, stress is the major contributor for cardiovascular disease, neurological and gastrointestinal issues. Stress suppresses the immune system and causes the body to become resistant to cortisol.
The antidote to stress is praise. Learning to turn our attention from the problem to prayer and praise is the only permanent solution to anxiety, fear and worry. God is bigger than the threatening giant, the overwhelming flood of fear and the humongous mountain that we are facing. If we don’t learn to resist stress and de-stress, we will be overwhelmed with fear and distress.
Most Bible scholars are of the opinion that David wrote Psalm 27 when he fled from the clutches of King Saul. David was running for his life yet he found peace and comfort in God’s presence. He proclaims this statement of confidence and courage in faith. “For in the day of trouble He will keep me safe in His dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of His sacred tent and set me high upon a rock”.
Our immediate reaction to a challenge should be to take cover under the shelter of the Most-High God. David wrote this while hiding in the caves and wilderness of the Judean Desert but he was confident that he had the protection of the hosts of the angelic army around him.
Under pressure don’t stress – run into a quiet corner and pray. God will give you strategies to overcome the challenge and calm the tumultuous soul.
Destress:
- Shelter: Rush to God’s presence when stressed. Prayer closet is our only safe haven under pressure.
- Still: Refocusing on God’s promise is a ‘destressing technique’ to still the emotions and the commotion in our soul.
- Surrounded: Remember that we are surrounded by a shield of favour.
“If we don’t de-stress, distress will overtake us.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I will rest on your arms and destress when I am stressed. Amen.
Leave a Reply