I don’t know about you, but I am so hard on myself. I expect perfection. I set the bar so high for myself and don’t accept setbacks. And, when I don’t measure up to the man-made rules I set for myself, I quickly feel distressed. It’s as if all my energy is taken away from me, and I give way to panic.
How do we manage to feel joyful and happy in the midst of panic?
We give our cares over to God. We loosen the burden. Some of us are holding burdens we were not meant to carry. God sent His only Son, Jesus, down to earth for a reason. Jesus didn’t suffer in vain. He is more than able to take the burdens we carry. We just have to lie our baggage on the side of the road and trust that Jesus will take it from there. And He will.
What do I do if I continue to feel worried, stressed, and out of sorts?
Endurance is something highly admired by all. When we see an athlete lift a heavy weight, we admire their ability to not give up and press themselves to the limit. In the same way, when I endure through struggles, it builds great strength over time. My results are not always right away. However, I can trust in this verse: “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17). Our troubles serve a purpose, and furthermore, notice the words “light and momentary troubles.” These troubles are not meant to last forever. Endure.
**Challenge question: Am I holding on to anything tighter than I’m holding on to Jesus?
This one may get us every time. I need to ask myself if I’m putting a relationship, health, wealth, possessions above my first love. If I am, I am setting myself up for failure. None of these will ever measure up to what Jesus can provide. I don’t have to beat myself up over failing in this area; however, I need to begin to shift my focus. There is so much freedom found in Jesus that I’m looking for. If I’m looking to Him for my needs, I’m going to be able to give to the needs of others’ around me with a full cup. A cup filled with love. That is a very rewarding feeling.
At times, God may seem distant. This is okay. That is where faith comes in. This just may be a slight test of our faith. Is it as really as strong as we think it is? Sometimes, what has helped me in the past is that I think, well, what worked in the past? There are strategies God has given you and I to utilize in our time of stress. The faster we turn to these, the faster we can get over these obstacles. Keep in mind, these AREN’T rituals that lead to further anxiety (something I have to watch out for). These are proven strategies that have helped you in the past. Here are things I have come to learn that might help you as well: My Story with OCD (Christian Perspective).
Remember, we don’t live in a perfect world. Stop waiting for things to be perfect. This life will ALWAYS be messy. I can guarantee you that. 😊 I say that out of love. Because, even if for awhile you think to yourself, man, things are going really well for me! – it just takes an instant for all that to change. After all, things are always changing. So, don’t escape the problems of your life but meet it face on. Admit you have a struggle but decide instead that you are going to push through. It doesn’t mean resisting the pain – which can leave you even more exhausted – it means letting the pain in and continuing on anyway. Eventually, like the weightlifter, you will see yourself being able to handle more and hold more weight. And that, my friends, is where true Kingdom work can thrive as you are strong enough to help others.
I hope this encourages you. Remember, Jesus has your back, and He has great plans for your future. God bless! <3