Calm: How to Manage Stress & AnxietySample

There’s Some Work Involved

Reflect/Discuss

• What are some of the triggers that cause you stress?
• What are some of your default habits when you are anxious?

Consider

Being calm in times of stress isn’t something that will come easily. We are constantly fighting against our old habits and all the distractions in our lives. God will give us His peace, but part of the process of receiving it is to refine our character. There’s some work that we need to put in ourselves.

The Bible tells us that we experience His perfect peace when our minds are determined and unwavering. That comes from trusting in God and keeping our focus on Him. When our focus is on God’s love and power to take care of us, it blocks out all other doubts and negativity that try to convince us we have to manage on our own. The practice of focusing our minds on God, or mediation, strengthens our relationship and reliance on Him, giving us greater peace.

Act

• Our minds are connected to our bodies and focusing our minds often involves taking care of our bodies. Focus on healthy physical habits this week like eating healthy foods and exercising to help clear your mind to focus on God.
• We tend to jump into prayer time with all of our stress, then go on with our day when we’re done talking to God. We don’t allow time for His peace to work in us. In your prayer times, set aside time to just sit in silence and listen. Clear your mind of your thoughts and let God speak.