Are you under stress?

It's almost impossible to truly and fully believe in God when you're dominated by deadlines all day long and don't even know which way is up. Am I right?

At least that's how it is for me…! Every time I'm in a stressful phase, my faith life automatically takes a back seat. I sleep less, I have a headache during the day, and then I don't even have the energy to read the Bible or pray. So I just end up hastily mumbling something to the Lord.

If you were sitting in front of me right now, I think there's a good chance I'd see you nodding your head! I'm sure most of us have been in this place. But Ecclesiastes tells us, "...Don't make rash promises, and don't be hasty in bringing matters before God. After all, God is in heaven, and you are here on earth. So let your words be few. Too much activity gives you restless dreams; too many words make you a fool." (Ecclesiastes 5:1-3, NLT)

I'd like to encourage you to make your faith, not stress, the priority. You alone can make that decision! What a blessing but also a great responsibility. And that's why this next question is so important: Does stress rob you of faith, or does faith rob you of stress?

At the beginning of my career, I suddenly had many different opportunities to perform on T.V., radio, etc. I started running from one event to the next, thinking, "God will surely catch up and come alongside me in all I'm doing—this is really important for my future right now!"

Looking back, I know this was not very wise. Sadly, God fell by the wayside in my life, and so did my health. Gratefully, He helped me make some important changes, and now I'm committed to at least try to always make HIM the priority!

And do you know what? :-) I'm much more relaxed now and so often experience God working on my behalf and for His glory! As the Psalmist says to the Lord, "My times are in Your hand…" (Psalm 31:15, NKJV).

Don't be afraid to reprioritize your life. What could happen if you slowed down and allowed God to guide you rather than stress? I believe it could be one of the best decisions you ever make! :-)

You are a miracle!

Déborah