Like many of you, I sometimes find it difficult to be still for even just a few moments during the course of my day. Between raising a family, running a household, and trying to stay focused at my "paying" job, it can seem next to impossible!
Motion, movement, mobility, etc., is the name of the game in our modern society. If you attempt to slow down, or drop a step or two behind, you're probably going to be shoved aside and trampled over by others on their way to who-knows-what.
Often times we from hear older generations about how "things were much simpler back in the day." That we live in a world that seemingly never slackens up is is no big secret. We are all quite aware of how this impacts our relationships with others. But how does this stress-filled, pressure-driven life affect our relationship with God?
Perhaps we can learn something from the Israelites' experiences in the book of Exodus. Upon the Israelites' release from the bondage of Egypt's Pharaoh, Moses and His people were quickly on the move. The Pharaoh was not in a good mood after they left, and Moses knew it.
What transpired was very distressing. Their lives were totally up-ended. This would have been stressful enough had the story ended here, but it didn't. Afterwards, came the incident at the Red Sea, and then God's presentation of his Laws. All of this kind of makes our lives seem rather tame in comparison, doesn't it?
As the book of Exodus concludes, we see Moses giving God's instructions to the Israelites regarding the tabernacle, priest and worship. Their lives gradually began to slow down. The next book, Leviticus, opens and closes with the Israelites' parked at Mt. Sinai. Here they were given God's rules for worship in the tabernacle.
Though they didn't realize it at the time God had provided them an opportunity to de-stress from the Egyptians; the running away; and the uncertainty of their future (Exodus 33:14). He was also slowly weaning the Israelites from a way of life they had known, and guiding them towards the life He had prepared.
You may recall, there were occasions where the people turned against Moses. They reacted to the stresses that were pressing down on them from all sides. But, don't we do the same? Instead of Moses, we might snap at our spouses, children, or co-workers, Some may turn to drink, drugs, or worse
While it's important to recognize the symptoms of stress, and the importance of healthy ways to relax. we must not forget to include God. He recognized the Israelites' need for respite, and He definitely sees yours, too. If you're feeling stressed, why not let God give you rest (Hebrews 4:10)!
Scripture: Isaiah 30:15; Psalm 4:8; Philippians 4:6; Matthew 8:24; Isaiah 32:17
Prayer: Dear Lord, Although I get caught up in my own life and neglect You, You never abandon me. I know when times are difficult, stress can blind our eyes to You. I thank You for supporting me even when I don't deserve it; and pray to always keep you first in my heart. Amen
Have a blessed day!
Heidi
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