God's Rx for Renewal

Nearly everyone you talk to today is “stressed out” about something. We are always busy. Yet the 23rd Psalm says, “He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.” When was the last time you allowed God to do these things for you?

By definition, stress is mental or emotional tension characterized by feelings of anxiety or fear. Stress comes in two types: acute, caused by a specific event, and chronic. ACC therapist, Rebecca Lowry, described the human fight or flight response to specific danger. “When the adrenaline begins to flow, our muscles tense and our blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen, and cortisol levels rise. In today’s society, this type of response isn’t often needed. With chronic stress, we stay at these heightened levels and there is no recovery period for our bodies.”

Ms. Lowry suggests we go back to basics and look at God’s prescription for personal renewal. “After many successes, we find Elijah in I Kings 19 exhausted and fearful. God does not chasten him when he cries out; He provides. First, an angel cares for his physical needs recommending sleep and providing nourishment. Next, Elijah begins a solitary 40-day journey. There was much time for contemplation and reflection which brought restoration to his mind and emotions. Finally there was spiritual renewal. Elijah was to look for God. He was not found in wind or fire but in a whisper which Elijah had to be quiet and still to hear.”

If we personalize this story, we’ve all known times when life events have us feeling overwhelmed. Rebecca suggests walking through these steps:

• Care for your physical body.
• Take time to care for your mind and emotions.
• Seek to reconnect with God for spiritual nourishment.

“If after going through these steps a person can’t achieve a quiet place, they may need to consider counseling to provide that safe haven,” she stated.

“Whether by profession, or marriage, or friendship, most of us are caregivers. Our cups need to be overflowing in order to give to others. If they are simply full, we will be depleted in short order,” shared Rebecca. “We cannot be effective as God’s instruments without self-care as a priority.” Lowry offered the following practical suggestions:

• In your quiet place, listen to God’s Word for direction, comfort, and solace.
• Enjoy fellowship with friends and family.
• Try to remember how you enjoyed expressing yourself as a child—art, music, dance, writing, athletics—as this may tell you something about God’s design in your life. You will likely find renewal in returning to these interests.
• Take time to enjoy simple things.
• Take time for play and fun.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with stress and needs a safe place to find healing and refreshment, call Associates in Christian Counseling at 336-896-0065.