Let them know that you, whose name is the Lord—that you alone are the Most High over all the earth. (Ps. 83:18)
Here are some “Fun Facts” (not really) about stress. Stress can lead to numerous physical and psychological symptoms including headaches, upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, muscle tightness, breathing issues, depression, and problems sleeping. Research further suggests that stress also can bring on or worsen certain symptoms or diseases such as asthma, skin conditions, diabetes, coronary artery disease, and rheumatoid arthritis, just to name a few. Consider also that 43 percent of all adults suffer adverse health effects from stress, and 75 percent to 90 percent of all doctor’s office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints.
Stress has been known to make us feel cranky and unable to deal with even small problems, feel frustrated and lash out at others for no reason, experience jumpiness or find it hard to focus on tasks, worry too much about small things, believe that we are missing out on things because we can’t act quickly, and imagine that bad things are happening or about to happen.
Is it any wonder that Christ told us not to worry (Matt. 6:31–33), and Paul instructed us to pray instead of fear (Phil. 4:6–7)? In Psalm 83, Asaph seems to have been filled with worry and fear. Yet at the end of the psalm he reminded himself (and us) of an important truth that should never be forgotten: God was in control, is control, and will always be in control.
Worry is faith in the worst. Live today with faith in God’s best for you.
Mark J. Musser is a pastor at Trinity Wesleyan Church in Allentown, Pennsylvania. He lives with his wife and teenage son.
