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How do you know when you’ve reached your breaking point? Life can throw so much at you that before long, you can find yourself completely stressed out and overwhelmed. 

That’s why it’s imperative for you to consistently check in with yourself. Just as you would when driving a car, you must pay attention to the signs in your life. If you don’t slow down in time, you could do damage to yourself and others.

Pay attention to the signs

There are many indicators of stress and overwhelm. Your heart may race. Your chest may tighten. One day you might struggle to fall asleep, and the next day you might struggle to get out of the bed. You may find yourself ruminating on what happened in the past or what’s to come in the future. If left unchecked, this pattern of overthinking could lead to anxiety and depression. 

Whatever you do, don’t ignore the signs. Use them as a guide to what’s really going on in your heart and your mind.

Get to the root of stress

What is causing the stress in your life? Have you taken on more than you can manage in this season of your life? Do you have too many responsibilities? Life transitions may require you to give yourself a little (or a lot) more grace. Difficult relationships, health issues, and financial struggles can weigh heavy on your heart. You may feel overwhelmed if you’re missing the mark in your personal or professional life. 

If what you’re doing isn’t working, it’s time to do something different. Delegate some items on your to-do list to someone else. Give yourself grace. Celebrate your small wins. Release yourself from lofty goals that require more than you can give right now.

Respond with rest

If you currently feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, there are two words that can change the game for you: 

Be still. 

Find some time to get alone by yourself in total silence. Talk to God in prayer about whatever is weighing you down. Reach out to a friend. Be a friend to yourself by recording your thoughts and listening to them later. Just find a healthy way to express what’s going on internally.

Journaling can be a powerful tool for freeing up your space in your heart and mind. I encourage you to write it all down. Acknowledge your gratitude as well as your frustration.

When all else fails, just breathe. Breathe with intention; slowly inhaling for the count of four and exhaling for the count of eight. Give your body what it needs to function well. Get outside. Drink more water. Take a bath. Eventually, your mind will slow down. 

All of this is helpful, but do you want to know the best way to deal with stress? Read the Word. I’ve put together some of my go-to Scriptures for dealing with overwhelm.

  • Psalm 46:10
  • Psalm 90:17
  • Colossians 3:23
  • Ecclesiastes 3:22
  • Job 1:21
  • Matthew 6:34
  • 2 Corinthians 4:7-9
  • Psalm 34

I know it can be hard to rest in the promises of God when anxiety is weighing you down, but don’t give up. Things will begin to move in the right direction when you let go and let God.

Highlights from Today’s Episode

  • Noticing the signs of stress
  • Getting to the root of stress
  • Responding with rest

Related Resources

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Let’s Talk!

  1. How do you know when you’re stressed?
  2. Is there anything on your plate that you can delegate to someone else? Can you say no to a commitment that God has not said yes to?
  3. What Scripture is carrying you through this season of your life? 

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