Show us the way

Read > Psalm 23:1-4

He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honour to His name (v. 3).

I read of an Indian guru who will sell you “inner peace” for about $300. His brand of self-controlled breathing and meditation is all the rage among India’s stress-worn business people and millions of others worldwide. Fortunately, it can be learned in one weekend and requires just 30 minutes of practice each day to keep the good vibes coming.

Sure, taking a few deep breaths may help lower our blood pressure, but stress relief for our souls comes from God. We need Him to show us the way to peace. David pointed this out in his famous psalm when he wrote, “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need” (23:1). This thought is simple, but it floors me every time I read it. When I feel the pressure build and my thoughts begin to rotate like a whirlwind, I remember that “His peace will guard [our] hearts and minds” (Philippians 4:7). He is all we need.

Because He is sufficient, God is more than able to “[guide us] along right paths, bringing honour to His name” (Psalm 23:3). The real antidote for stress is to overcome it with His power – to honour Him!

Maybe you’re thinking, That’s just great, but my mailbox is overflowing with bills and I can’t sleep. There’s chaos at our house 24/7. When David was stressed, he wrote, “I will not be afraid, for You are close beside me” (v. 4). God’s guidance is a close, protective leadership meant to “restore, support, and strengthen you, and He will place you on a firm foundation” (1 Peter 5:10).

Whether you work in an office or a factory or with a busy 2-year-old, stress is unavoidable. Fortunately, God can help us manage it, and His brand of inner peace is not for sale. He just wants to show us the way. – Jennifer Benson Schuldt

More >

·         Psalm 4:8

·         John 14:27

·         2 Thessalonians 3:16

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How have you attempted to relieve the stress in your life? Why does God want us to overcome stress His way?