Stress: Day 4

Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? ... If I take the wings of the morning and settle at the farthest limits of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me fast.
Psalm 139:7, 9-10 NRSV

Thought

The psalmist expresses the urge to flee—a typical reaction to stress. Examine your thoughts for these signs of stress: Do you have trouble sleeping? Do you overeat or have no appetite? Do you worry constantly? Do you have increased heart rate or rapid breathing while at rest? Are you irritable, angry, or impatient? Are you tired? Are you unable to concentrate? It is God’s hand that leads you through the stress of grief.

Prayer

God, when stress overwhelms me, I want to run away and hide from everything, even from you. I am grateful that there is nowhere beyond your reach and protection. Amen.

Assurance

God’s care for me extends to the farthest limits of the sea.