During times of stress, we can feel bogged down. We have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning. Our productivity slows. We may experience headaches, fatigue, tight muscles. All of this is no fun! Consequently, we look for something to bring us relief and release from stress. God gave us an escape. The Bible is a powerful tool we have that can bring us back to peace.
The Bible interrupts our negative thinking patterns.
Whatever thought pattern we follow will continue unless it is interrupted. It will not only continue, it will become stronger just like whatever muscles we exercise become the strongest. The Bible interrupts negative thought patterns and helps us exercise positive, hopeful thought patterns. A lot of our battles in this life consists of conquering our thoughts. We fight to take them away from the enemy’s control. This is a fight that often feels discouraging. However, 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 offers this encouragement,
For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God and take every thought captive to obey Christ.”
Those destructive thoughts that have been playing in your head for years that seem like mighty strongholds can be brought to obedience. We cannot do it on our own strength. We must invite God into our fight and use His mighty words.
It helps us gain energy and excitement.
Whatever we dwell on actually turns into matter. Our thinking will materialize into feelings. If we think hateful, angry thoughts, we will feel hateful and angry. If we think joyful, hopeful thoughts we will feel energetic and happy. This information sheds some light on the wisdom of Philippians 4:8 which states,
Finally, brothers whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise think about these things.”
The next verse points out when we practice these things we find peace. “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me – practice these things and the God of peace will be with you.”
The Bible offers us alternative thoughts.
When we are in times of stress, we can fall into limiting thought patterns. The Bible opens our thinking. In Psalms 119, the Psalmist continually praises the word of God. The writer states in verses 41-42,
Let your steadfast love come to me, O Lord, your salvation according to your promise; then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me for I trust in your word.”
The Bible gives us an answer to the thoughts that taunt us. It helps us replace the lies of limiting thoughts with the truth of His love.
The Bible helps us focus back on the present which is where we can make a change.
Over and over again in the Bible, we are encouraged to not worry about the future. God’s got it! We are also encouraged not to dwell on the past but to press on. When we dwell in the past or future, we miss a lot of rich opportunities. It pays to be present. The knowledge that God has the past and the future covered helps us stay in the moment.
In our culture, self-care has become highly encouraged to help alleviate stress. Self-care often includes things like painting our nails, going for a walk, journaling… One of the best self-care habits we can put into our day is spending time in God’s word.
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Wise counsel for these unsettling times. Our gracious Heavenly Father always has us covered if we discipline ourselves to turn to him.🙌🏻😊