Busy is a choice. Stress is a choice. Joy is a choice. Choose well.
Every time I surrender to stress, aren’t I advertising the unreliability of God?
Sometimes, too often, I don't want to muster the energy. Stress and anxiety seem easier.
Stress isn't only a joy stealer. The way we respond to it can be sin.
In a storm of struggles, I have tried to control the elements, clasp the fist tight so as to protect self and happiness. But stress can be an addiction, and worry can be our lunge for control, and we forget the answer to this moment is always yes because of Christ.
Going ahead in the midst of the stressful circumstances and giving thanks in that moment - you can't simultaneously feel stress and gratitude at the same time. So as a parent, to go ahead and start to give thanks to God resets the whole family.
Are stress and worry evidence of a soul too lazy, too undisciplined, to keep gaze fixed on God?
I glance back in the mirror to the concrete bridge, the one I've boldly driven straight across without second thought, and I see truth reflecting back at me: Every time fear freezes and worry writhes, every time I surrender to stress, aren't I advertising the unreliability of God? That I really don't believe? But if I'm grateful to the Bridge Builder for the crossing of a million strong bridges, thankful for a million faithful moments, my life speaks my beliefs and I trust Him again.
