Stress free living seems impossible in a world of duties, obligations and responsibilities.  Add to that catastrophes and threats without and within our country.

The stress level is determined by a person’s reaction to a situation and it increases when he or she cannot decide what to do or how to respond.  Stress steals the joy of today and affects others with harsh words and hurt feelings.

            When the mind is stressed the body suffers.  Heart and respiratory problems, migraines, allergies, tense muscles, depression and many other diseases are stress related.

            An accumulation of life’s daily little things can also bring it on.  I’ve heard it said, “It’s the little things that bother us, and put us on the rack; you can sit upon a mountain, but you can’t sit on a tack.”

            So how do we react in stressful times?  In coping with difficult circumstances we do have a choice.  Making the right choice results in better health for daily living.  I have summarized the following concepts from the Bible.  I’m trying to apply them to my life and I hope you will too.  All of us want a more peaceful  “stress less” life.

            Focus on one day at a time.  Tomorrow will take care of itself.

            Know when to say “No.”  Over commitment means more stress.

            Stop comparing yourself to others.  You are a unique creation in your own right.

            Do the best you can and stop there.  Perfectionists are never satisfied.

            Set reasonable goals.  So a goal wasn’t met today.  It’s no big deal.

            Do some kind of daily exercise.

            Forgive others and get on with life.

            Do a kind deed for someone.  The blessing always returns.

            Say, “I love you” often.  A hug and kiss mends all hurts.

            “Be anxious for nothing.”  (Take a break.  Sit on the porch swing and do nothing but swing.  Take a walk with your dog.  Watch a favorite TV show.  Read a book.)

            Be content with what you have.

            Let peace be the judge in your heart.

            Make a new friend.

            Overcome fear with faith.

            Give the other person the benefit of the doubt.  You haven’t walked in his or her shoes.

            Remove all negative speech. It’s a good way to cancel the “downers.”

            Realize each day is a gift.  Make the most of it.  That makes “life delicious!”

            Be free with sincere compliments.

            Be able to say at night, “Lord, I did better today and will have a better tomorrow.”

            Always remember, “A relaxed attitude lengthens life; jealousy rots it away” (Proverbs 14:30 NLT).

            Think of the most difficult situation in your life.  That is the easiest thing for God to handle if not blocked by doubt and unbelief.  When you feel life is a battle, hope is still there.  When you feel alone Jesus is still there. When the last breath ends, love is still there.  So this life isn’t over until God says it’s over.  He is the hope, the refuge, the everlasting One.  So take heart today.  Jesus is just a prayer away.