I sat in the back car, stressing about schooling on vacation. Stressing about my math test. Stressing about my computer being broken. And in the midst of it, suddenly something I'd read online a few nights ago came back to me. The person said it helped them when they were stressing to praise God. So I tried it, not fully expecting it to work. But it did!
When you're stressed, you're worrying about something. Whether it's worrying about something you have to deal with (which it most commonly is), or worried about something for someone else, it's worrying about one thing or another. When you're focused on that one thing, sometimes it's hard to get your mind off of it. It was for me. But when you're praising God, you're focusing on Him. You're ignoring your troubles. Sure, you will have to deal with them. But you're putting them aside for the moment and giving praise to the Maker of the universe.
I know, it's easier said than done. I certainly don't feel like praising God when I'd rather crumble up in a corner and complain about how unfair life is. One thing that's helped me when I feel that way is singing songs of worship. Singing is a beautiful of bringing praise to God. Another way is reading scripture. Reading in a book like Psalms shows you how David was praising God, even through hardships. And lastly, if you're still having trouble giving genuine praise to God, try listing all the things that He's given you. Start with things like family, friends, food, blankets, warm house. Then move on to things that you often take for granted, such as breathing, walking, skipping, seeing, hearing. I have yet to find it possible to try all of those things and not feel genuine thankfulness to God. I'm giving praise where praise is due, and in the meantime, as a special bonus, I'm not stressed. I went from the state of ready to rip my hair out in stress, to smiling and praising God. The next time you're stressed, try refocusing that energy on praising God.
Kayla Joy
