Stress is pressure, heavy concern, the weight of responsibility, duty or circumstances.  As it builds there can be a corresponding breakdown reflected in a weak area of ourselves, body, soul, and spirit.  When it hits our body we take specific notice.

Scripture gives many illustrations, this one was appropriately met.  “David’s two wives had been captured—Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail, the widow of Nabal of Carmel.  David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters.  But David found strength in the Lord his God. (1 Samuel 30: 5-6).  Can you imagine the pressure of having your wife taken captive and your own company turning against you as the responsible party for this disaster?  David lost no time fretting, worrying, or trying to cope in his own strength, but went to the Lord for help, direction, and deliverance.

I had such an experience when both my elderly parents were each in the hospital and could no longer live alone at their home.  I was solely taking care of them and was under considerable stress.  Suddenly, my gallbladder spasmed on the verge of rupture and I wound up in the hospital myself.  At that point I could only call upon the Lord and He answered and supplied for all our needs.  We can become distress with so many things and become accustomed to the pressure which can build up over time that we don’t realize it’s full weight until something breaks and sends us to God.

Rest is essential for the body, mind and soul.  Yeshua knew this and said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11: 28-30).  Peter advises us, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5: 7).  God will meet you in your place of need with a solution, healing, peace and rest.  Cry out to Him in prayer and faith that He is loving and faithful.

God has a purpose and it is too good to fully grasp in our present existence, but he gives us the big picture of Heaven where lies our destiny.  “He will wipe every tear from their eyes.  There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.  He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’ ” ( Revelation 21: 4-5).  We are so weak in ourselves, but He is strong and willing to give us everything we need for life and godliness.  Im asking Yeshua on your behalf, may you find your strength and healing in the Lord today.