Several years ago, my doctor ordered me to take a stress test. They attached electrodes to my chest and arms—then asked me to run on a treadmill for a while.
A long while if you ask me.
Fortunately, I made it through the test. But I discovered that no matter how hard or fast my weary legs ran in their futile attempt to keep up, I just couldn’t keep going forever. Eventually I had to stop.
Life works like that too.
If the pressures of life have got you running faster and faster, you won’t be able to keep that frenzied pace forever. You weren’t made to. Eventually, you’ll crash.
So before that happens, I encourage you to stop and rest for a while in your Savior’s arms.
Stop to Pray:
Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”
When you let go of your burdens by placing them in God’s hands through prayer, you’ll feel your stress starting to dissolve. He can handle whatever you give Him.
Stop to Praise:
When David was pursued by his enemies, he knew his greatest weapon wasn’t his sword or his natural abilities. It was worship.
Psalm 34: 1,4 says, “I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.”
Stop to Gain Perspective:
Philippians 4:8–9 reminds us that we are shaped by our thoughts. When you think about stressful things, you’ll feel stressed. When you think about whatever is “true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, or excellent,” your thoughts will rest on things above—and you’ll feel lighter.
When the stresses of life test you, the peace you’re craving is available. It’s just waiting for you to stop and rest in Jesus.
