Stress Week

Psalm 23:4-6
Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death, [a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.

God is constantly with us. King David looked directly into the face of death, surrounded by enemies, and still placed his faith in God. As he put it, God's "rod and staff" comfort him. Back in those times, a rod was used to ward off predators, such as wolves. A staff was used to guide the sheep. In essence, God will not only protect us but will provide for us as well. David continues to see the bigger picture as well in verse six when he says that he "will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." Not only does David trust God in his present danger but is also looking ahead for what is to come. He's not just living in the moment but living with the bigger picture in mind.

These next few days look like busy ones to me. Exams, lab reports, meetings, so much to do in so little time. It would be very easy for me to focus on myself and work towards my goals and allocate all of my time towards achieving them. Even though my back is up against the wall, my response shouldn't be able my desires. It should be about turning to God, praising Him and thanking Him in all things. Instead of stressing and worrying, I am to trust the Lord for He will provide for me (albeit not exactly in the way that I expect most of the time). And there is hope, a light at the end of the tunnel. In my present situation, things look stressful but greater things are yet to come. What is going on in my life, all the stress and worries, is nothing when placed in the context of an eternity with God. Be hopeful. Be joyful. Be praise-ful.