Counsel #1 — Pervasive Stress And Insecurity

Picture: Counsel #1 — Pervasive Stress And InsecurityCMH 27.1

Let’s face it—most people today suffer from stress, and many struggle with insecurities. A recent poll in the United States found that 55% claim that their level of stress prevents them from enjoying life.^{[24]https://www.miningjournal.net/life/wednesday-learning/2023/11/majority-of-americans-say-stress-is-destroying-their-ability-to-enjoy-life/}CMH 27.2

Stress and insecurity may be universal experiences, but Christians have access to unique resources and hope through faith in God.CMH 27.3

It's important that we learn successful coping strategies because unmanaged stress can negatively impact our mental, emotional, spiritual and physical health, our relationships, and even our ability to function in life.^{[25]https://adventistyouthministries.org/resources/mental-health/mental-health-articles/staying-healthy?start=4}CMH 27.4

“[Cast] all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7CMH 27.5

“Jesus consents to bear our burdens only when we trust Him. He is saying: ‘Come unto me, all ye weary and heavy laden; give Me your load; trust Me to do the work that it is impossible for the human agent to do.’ Let us trust Him. Worry is blind and cannot discern the future. But Jesus sees the end from the beginning, and in every difficulty He has His way prepared to bring relief.” Ellen White in Amazing Grace, p. 113CMH 27.6

Reflect: Imagine yourself living without the paralyzing weight of stress and insecurity. What would that freedom look like in your relationships, your work, your spiritual life? Let this vision motivate your commitment to let Jesus bear your burdens.CMH 27.7