Part 3: Stress -- Problem or Opportunity?

January 18, 2004

Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
Matthew 11:28

Stress

Stress is defined as caused by excessive tension.

of stressful situations constitute no major obstacle.

of stressful situations cause of negative stress.

Measuring Stress -- pay attention to your body

The Stages in Stress

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Reducing Stress -- 4 Questions

1. Do you seek God's guidance in your life? Yes No

2. Is this new situation really a threat to you? Yes No

3. Is it worth fighting about? Yes No

4. If you fight, will it change anything? Yes No

God doesn't reject you for feeling anxiety -- He invites you to trust in Him.

How You Can Reduce Stress in Your Home

Pray together at least once every day.
Read God's Word -- trust His promises
Attend church regularly
Set realistic goals
Determine what is really important
Take a break -- do something else
Plan a family activity each week
Have family meetings periodically
Exercise regularly, get enough sleep, eat well
Say something positive to a family member every day
Find a support group
Keep a sense of humor

God Understands and Answers Your Troubles!

God you and wants you to be
The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.
Jeremiah 31:3
Jesus died to humanity
For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin--
Romans 6:6
Jesus rose to give you
Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.
Psalm 62:5
Trust your life to God's -- place him at the
Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.
Psalm 62:8

1. Do you seek God's guidance in your life?	Yes	No
2. Is this new situation really a threat to you?	Yes	No
3. Is it worth fighting about?	Yes	No
4. If you fight, will it change anything?	Yes	No