Rick Warren, pastor at Saddleback Church in California, is someone who I connect with. He challenges my thinking and pushes me outside of my box.
Recently he has talked about worrying and the stressors in your life. I am the “queen” when it comes to worry, which does nothing but create more stress in my life. I do have plenty to go around without conjuring up any more. He gave me steps to help me deal with the stress in my life.
Step 1. Worry about nothing.
Yeah right. He says that we should worry about nothing. Worry is a choice. Really? I may be looking at this all wrong.
Step 2. Talk to God about everything.
I can do this BUT, DO I do this? I know when I do talk to God first, things always come out better. Then why don’t I do this routinely? Maybe it is my need for control? Do I think I need to figure it out without God? I cant remember God ever asking me for help doing His job.
Step 3. Thank God in all things.
That one is not difficult. That is part of my morning prayers. Is it part of yours?
Step 4. If I want to reduce stress, I must think about good things.
Stress is between your ears. What I fill my mind with makes a difference. But it is still not easy. It is in my mind. I do have control of it. So why don’t I control it?
Step 5. Be content with anything I have, enjoy what I have, and where I am right now.
Not easy for someone who is future oriented. But that’s why they call today the present. It is a gift.
I got this. I can do this but I cannot do this alone. I have to rely on God.
Philippians 4:13 tells me “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
Which of the 5 steps are challenging for you?