Philippians 4:13 RSV (Revised Standard Version) — I can do all things in him who strengthens me.

In yesterday’s post I told you about a time I felt overwhelmed while trying to complete my National Board recertification. At that moment, I started praying for God’s strength and guidance. Then I texted several friends that are prayer warriors and explained my stress. They all gave me loving and encouraging words. One dear friend said, “Deep breath…breathe in Jesus and breathe out that stress!” So I did. As I breathed in Jesus, I poured out my stress to Him. I told Him how much I had to do, as if He didn’t know. I told Him it was impossible and He said yes it is impossible on your own. I wondered, why in the world did I sign up for this National Board process anyway? He told me to remember how this journey began. So I thought back to the beginning of my recertification process.

What makes you feel overwhelmed? How do you handle feelings of being overwhelmed? Examine your response to feeling overwhelmed. Do you start out with prayer? Do you call on prayer warriors to join you in prayer? Recognize the need to rely on Jesus and allow Him to give you guidance, strength, and courage. Breathe in Jesus and pour out your stress to Him. Before rushing into the next thing on your list, read this article titled, “7 Christian Mindfulness Exercises” for a Christian approach to dealing with feeling overwhelmed.

Let’s pray. Thank You God for reminding me that I cannot accomplish tasks with my own strength. Help me to rely on You and turn to You for guidance and direction. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.