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PROGRAM D-7288
Let me ask you a question: Do you think Christians should handle stress better than non-Christians? I think we should because the Bible gives us practical guidance in dealing with stress, and then we have the power of the Holy Spirit within us to help us practice these biblical principles. I’m pointing out some of the Bible’s stress reduction techniques.
Here’s number five: Take a moment to re-live a happy time in your life. Asaph wrote in Psalm 77 “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.” You know, we can so easily forget God’s goodness to us and get bogged down with everyday life. If you’ll make yourself take time to remember and re-live a specific blessing in your life, it will make a difference.
I often have the opportunity to share my testimony when I’m speaking at various events. Every time I verbalize out loud all the good things God has done for me, it blesses me greatly. I’m sure I get a greater blessing than my audience.
Have you told anyone lately what God has done for you? If you haven’t, I encourage you to do it now and often. It will bless you and uplift you and–yes– reduce your stress. Recite out loud those occasions of joy and thanksgiving. In fact, keep written records of answers to prayer and God’s working in your life, because one of the best ways to revive your soul is to go back and recall all the things God has done for you in the past. If you don’t keep some kind of record, you will forget many of them.
Stress reducer ideas number six and seven: Talk less. Listen more. James 1:19 tells us that “everyone should be quick to listen and slow to speak.” Right out of the Bible, this is a major stress reducer.
Are you a talker? If you will just reduce the number of words you say by about 30% today, you’ll reduce your stress by even more. Just stop talking and learn to truly listen to others.
Proverbs says a person of knowledge uses words with restraint, and if we answer before listening, that is our folly and shame. Today be quick to listen and slow to speak. It will reduce your stress.