The Session: Stress & Worry 1

Session Stress/Worry“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 4:6-7 Worry is to think about problems or fears: to feel or show fear and concern because you think that something bad has happened or could happen.  Worry feeds stress Why do people get stressed ?work, finance, health, relationships, poor nutrition, and media overload. Even considering work stress alone, half a dozen variables factor in, including salary, workload,considering work stress alone, half a dozen variables factor in, including salary, workload, growth opportunities, conflicting demands, lack of support, and control. With constant demands on our time, energy, and emotions, it feels impossible to turn “off.” Instantly accessible at any moment, we’re always on-call and in-demand. No wonder we’re stressed out.What are the primary sources of my stress?How often do I pray about the factors in my life causing me stress?Do I trust God with my work, finances, health, relationships, and future?What effects does my stress have on my loved ones?7 Ways Christians Should Deal With Stress and Anxiety By Aaron Loy (Relevant Magazine)1. Admit There is a Problem*Awareness and Ownership2. Stop Self Medicating In Unhealthy Ways*Examples include excessive snacking, drinking and camping out in front of the poo TV.*These unhealthy habits only cause a cycle of stress an self-medication.3. Take care of yourself Physically*We are the temple of the Holy Spirit.  It’s also important that we exercise.4. Be Intentional About What Goes into Your MindPhilippians 4:8 says this: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”Paul is pointing to the fact that what we fill our minds with has a profound effect on us.5. Don’t Neglect the Spiritual.*The enemy will whisper in your ear lies about your identity, your self-worth, your status before God, your past, your future, your hope. It is important that you recognize these for what they are.6. Consider Seeing a Doctor*Medicine is not a rejection of God’s power, but rather a provision of his grace. Sometimes it’s exactly what we need.7. Embrace the Blessing of Brokenness*If you are walking through the valley of anxiety right now, there is a way out, and I pray you find it. But in the meantime, don’t miss what God may have for you right where you are.*Psalm 23Exercise for Stress and AnxietyThe physical benefits of exercise — improving physical condition and fighting disease — have long been established, and physicians always encourage staying physically active. Exercise is also considered vital for maintaining mental fitness, and it can reduce stress. Studies show that it is very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and at enhancing overall cognitive function. This can be especially helpful when stress has depleted your energy or ability to concentrate.When stress affects the brain, with its many nerve connections, the rest of the body feels the impact as well. Or, if your body feels better, so does your mind. Exercise and other physical activity produce endorphins — chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers — and also improve the ability to sleep, which in turn reduces stress.Scientists have found that regular participation in aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease overall lTo reach Tom Russell, please call 419-709-8447, email Tom at [email protected], or visit his website at https://www.heritagechristiancounselingofmansfield.com