Stressed and Maxed Out?
“So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”
(2 Corinthians 5:6-8 ESV)
It took “forever” to get home. I had to sit in a plane for over 9 hours, traveling over the United States and the Atlantic ocean. When the plane landed in London, I still had several hours to wait and travel another hour to Germany before seeing my family. But the long travel was all worth it.
We often get very impatient with the long ‘travel’ here on earth. Believe me, I know. There are days that I wished the Lord would return and take me home. But then again, I know that there are things that still need to be done. There are people (family, friends and strangers) that need to hear about our Lord; about His love, grace and especially His forgiveness.
There are many ways to share Jesus with others. I am for one are not an evangelist and share the Gospel with anyone I meet. However, I have plenty opportunities to live a life that reflects my thanksgiving for what the Lord has done in my life. Especially in times of stress and uncertainties.
Over the past 2 years, it has been very stressful at my work; changes, changes and more changes. Some where easier than others. The other day, walking through the office, I noticed that many people are stressed out, maxed out. Although I am stressed as well, I try not to let it show. You see, I have a hope that only comes from our Lord.
I often tell people that if it were not for my faith, I would not make it and you may find me under my desk hiding. It may seem funny picturing me under the desk, but it would be reality if I would follow the flesh. However, when things seem to get out of hand, I will remember Paul’s words from Philippians 4:
“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.”
(Philippians 4:8 ESV)
With this Scripture in mind, let us not despair when we get stressed or are maxed out, but let us instead share the hope we have.
Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You for your love, grace and forgiveness. Help me to let Your light shine in a world that is dark and hopeless. May my words bring comfort and peace to the ones that are stressed and maxed out. I am trusting in Your mercy. In the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Photo & Content Copyright © Iris Nelson
Amen, amen.
Thank you for the reminder! Some days I just don’t think I can make it,but God lifts me up. I don’t tell others about Jesus per say all the time, but I think our lives speak loudly.