The dictionary defines stress as, “a physical, chemical, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension.” According to a recent poll, about three-fourths of people in the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, South Korea and the United Kingdom say they experience stress on a daily basis. These feelings of stress only seem to increase during the holidays. With so many places to go, gifts to buy, packages to wrap, cookies to bake, people to visit – life can become quite hectic. And all that busyness just adds to the feeling of stress. Are you feeling “stressed-out?” I have felt a bit stressed this week. With getting ready for the our Christmas services, prepping for some holiday family visits and planning for a number of activities taking place after the holidays, I have felt “the squeeze.” Whenever we feel the squeeze of stress – we need to follow the advice of the apostle Paul. In Philippians 4:6-7 he writes, “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.”
So during this “tis the season to be stressed-out” time of year – when you start “feeling the squeeze” try hitting your knees. Take whatever it is causing the stress and hand it over to God. Let Him handle it. His shoulders are broad and his heart his huge. And then sit back, kick back and enjoy His peace.
Wishing you and yours a Merry, stress-free Christmas!
Thanks for stopping by . . .
pj
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