We live in an anxiety filled world. I am not sure how much more our minds can process. We are in need of God's peace more than ever before.
Some time ago, I attended a church service where John Maxwell was preaching, and something he said really resonated in my spirit. He quoted a friend who had made this statement: "People grow into the conversations you have around them."
This made me think of the conversations I was having around my granddaughter, and the ones I have around my two children. I felt the weight of responsibility as a Christian mother and grandmother, a wife, employer and friend. The Bible describes our tongue as a powerful weapon (James 3), and we have a duty to use it to build people up and not tear them down.
I also began to reflect on the conversations that are going on around me, and I realized that I listened to a lot of news on TV. I don't know about you, but I finally had to admit to myself that while I want to be kept in the loop, the news also causes me tremendous stress. Bad news sells, but bad news also discourages our hearts and affects us in ways we cannot imagine.
Most of these "newsworthy" conversations are negative my friends, and we all have our individual struggles on top of that.
What can we do to lessen the anxiety? First and foremost we have to pray more. I have personally decided to stop watching the news and instead to watch comedy, or to use my extra time to read books and listen to sermons.
I spend more time meditating on God's word and taking more deep breaths. I walk as much as I can and say "NO" to other people's demands on my time if it is going to add undue pressure on me. I also avoid certain conversations if they have the potential to stress me out.
I remind myself that:
I AM LOVED BY GOD
I BELONG TO HIM
I AM SPECIAL
This gives me the confidence to face the challenges of this world with more calm and peace. I watch what I say to others, and I'm mindful of what I listen to as well.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, I encourage you to speak to a pastor, trusted friend, or to seek counseling. Please get help. There is no shame to it. Many people are in the same boat. Self care is not selfish. Please take care of you. I've stepped back from a lot of things this year to focus on me and my needs, and I am glad I did. I am discovering a lot.
If you are feeling anxious and stressed out, please contact us here at the GORGEOUS Woman Movement. We have many sisters and a dedicated pastor who will pray for all your concerns!
Please plan to be in Charlotte, NC for our First Annual GORGEOUS Woman Conference Tour in October 2022! You can get some more information by clicking the button below.
Remember, you are loved by God, you belong to him, and you are special!
Love and blessings,
Sharon