Stress Has a Useful Purpose

If the world was looking at a stress-filled life, most would concluded that stress was a waste of time and energy, and yet Scripture teaches us that although stress is a part of the Christian life, with the right attitude, we will be able to see that God uses the stresses in our lives for His glory. Now, let me make it clear, there are two types of stress, first, there are the stresses brought on by our own making. Second, there are stresses that hit us unexpectedly. Most of our stress is of our own choosing and making. Don't buy a car you can't afford, the interest rate and monthly payment will bring stress. You can be assure that God will not be glorified through your careless purchasing habits. The "stresses" that we find in James 1:2-12, is the stress brought about by an unexpected phone-call, an unexpected pink slip, and unexpected doctor's visit. It is through those moments, that God has promised to walk with us and make us stronger through them.

This week, let me share this fact about stress, stress is a paradox. A paradox is something that seems contradictory and yet it is true. How can we have joy through trials (James 1:2)? Is God telling us to be happy when we lose our job or get cancer? No! We are to find comfort and joy in the fact, that as a Christian, He is walking close to us, and He has promised to work all things for our good (Romans 8:28). Joseph had this attitude after looking back on his most difficult life; "you meant it for evil, but God used it for good..." (Gen. 50:20). What about Job, after loosing all his possessions, family, and health, he states, "But He knows the way I take; when He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold." (Job 23:10) What about Jesus, did Jesus experience a stressful life? Heb. 12:2 - "For the joy that was before Him, He endured the cross..." Yes, stress does bring joy; maybe not in the present, but if we keep faithful to Him, and simply trust Him, He will use those moments of testing to make us more like Him. Stress is a good test. Stress will make you stronger and mature - just ask a diamond or a pearl the value of stress. Well, until next time keep walking close to Christ.