The Stress Detox DevotionalSample

YOU DON’T HAVE TO FIGURE IT ALL OUT

So much of our stress comes from trying to figure everything out on our own. We tend to take on the whole enchilada rather than delegate small-bite tasks to others. We don’t ask for help because our insecurities tell us it’s a sign of weakness if we do. Instead of being honest that we’re overwhelmed by the situation or unsure of the next right step, we continue to carry the burden silently. Sometimes it’s just easier to assume we will figure everything out or at least look like we will. And at the end of the day, we’re a hot mess. We’re stressed out, frazzled, and barking at those we love. The missing piece in this scenario is that we aren’t trusting God. If we did, our heart wouldn’t be troubled, and we’d have a sense of peace knowing God is in control. We wouldn’t be bogged down with anxiety, sick to our stomachs with concern. If we will choose to humble ourselves and surrender our cares to Him, He promises to keep us on the right track. The Lord goes before you to straighten every crooked path. Think about your own life for a moment. Where are you trying to figure everything out yourself? You may be a bright and confident multitasker, but we all need help from time to time. You will most certainly need His help to navigate the ups and downs of marriage. You’ll need God’s perspective so you don’t waste time majoring on the minors in life. You will absolutely need His wisdom as you parent kids and His keen discernment as you face other relational challenges. Friend, you will need God’s strength to take another step when you’re exhausted and His courage to take a stand when necessary. The Lord never intended for you to be alone to try to figure out the struggles and challenges you’ll face. In your humanness, you are ill-equipped. That’s why He reminds you to ask for His help and listen to His leading. Even more, there’s a promise attached to that reminder. Today’s scripture says that when we run to God instead of allowing the enemy to stir us up with anxiety, it will positively affect our health. Just like doctors warn us about how stress can hurt our health, God tells us that surrendering our worries to Him improves it! Gone will be the sleepless nights and aching bones. Gone will be the proverbial pit in your stomach. Gone will be the fear and worry that doom is right around the corner. You don’t have to know it all. . .because God does.

Ask Yourself This. . .

What do I stand to gain if I invite God into my worries?

What keeps me from asking for help?