I’ve heard it said, “fear not” is repeated in the bible 365 times.  Obviously, fear can be a tremendous obstacle for us.  For many it can be crippling.  Fear and anxiety can lead to depression, which is a condition many people wrestle with.  At least 21 million Americans experience a major depressive episode over the course of their lives.

We all have our own “fear factors” which can shift us into our stress mode.  Stress triggers our “fight or flight” response.  This causes an increase in our stress hormone cortisol.  This in turn, results in our blood pressure, heart rate and breathing to increase.  What’s the solution or cure to dealing with stress?  As American’s our first response is to look toward our medicine chest or consult with our physician.  It’s no wonder, with all the commercials, promising relief from depression.  As you watch those commercials, be sure to read the small print, as the actors joyfully frolic through lovely fields of flowers chasing butterflies.  That’s where they try to hind the side effects, which often include suicide.  There has to be an alternative.

Start with physically addressing the body’s response to stress.  Gradually get back into exercise.  This will help combat the physical manifestations of stress.  Start slow, perhaps a nice long walk.  Stretching or getting a massage is a great addition for lowering your tension.  Eventually progressing into a resistive exercise program 2-3x/week would be a great addition.  Even our breathing is affected by stress.  Be mindful of how you breathe.  Stress breathing is shallow and with your chest.  Take several moments each day to breathe intentionally.  Lay on your back, put a pillow under your knees and place your hands on your belly.  Feel your belly go up while you inhale.  Exhale slowly, it should take twice as long for the exhale.  This little pause in your day will help take you out of the stress mode.  “Be still and know that I am God” Psalm 47:10.   This pause could also be a great time to pray or meditate on a bible verse.  Having a plan to address the physical elements of stress is crucial.

But let’s not forget, we are not just a physical being.  “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:8. The God of the universe cares for you!  Instead of worrying, remind yourself of that.  There are so many promises which God makes to us, which can be a source of peace.  On who, what or where we put our attention effects our joy and peace.

“Come to me (Jesus), all you who are tired and are carrying heavy loads and I will give you rest.”  Matthew 11:28.  It can be hard to enter that rest when we are saddled with stress.  Seek ye first the kingdom of God.  Put God first and place your concerns and fears at his feet daily.  Remember the enemy wants to rock us out of our peace.  He knows that a lack of peace effects our joy and our witness.  Fear Not.  Every morning when you put on the full armor of God, lace up those boots of peace tightly and walk joyfully!