MERRY CHRISTMAS!

ACTIONS OR EMOTIONS

"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus . . . "
Colossians 3:17

HERE WE ARE AGAIN. Another Christmas season, and, of course, another stressful season.

Let's be practical. Is it our actions or our emotions that cause the most stress during the Christmas season?

Yes, we tend to devote increased energies at home, work, and with various organizations for Christmas festivities. For the most part, these actions excite us and create only minimal stress.

On the other hand, we spend extensive and unnecessary energies dealing with our emotions. Stressing over people, places, and things that are frivolous and far-fetched goes against the de-stressing grain.

Unreasonable expectations have a way of producing stress in a matter of minutes. Once we allow our giving-and-receiving to become overly materialistic, before we realize it, stresses are on the rise.

Stress-survivors have discovered something--not necessarily new--that's quite effective in combating holiday stress.

Celebrating with these words from COLOSSIANS 3:17. . . "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus . . . " not only makes our Christmases brighter, but also makes our stresses lighter.

This Christmas, whether it's our actions or emotions, let's be mindful to "do all in the name of the Lord Jesus" as we embrace our holiday preparations and celebrations. Let's reduce seasonal stress.

Peace I leave with you . . .

DISCIPLINE

"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid,
but gives us power, love and self-discipline."
2 Timothy 1:7, NIV

Discipline? . . . In these times? With these stresses?

Like most public perception, stress-survivors feel that discipline can be difficult--quite difficult. Yet, a continuous cycle of whatever-will-be-will-be, leads to continuous stress.

Because discipline contributes to various aspects of less-stressful lifestyles, it's imperative that we make every effort to execute it.

One essential fact in dealing with discipline is that DISCIPLINE IS AN EVERYDAY THING. We can't expect to up and usher in discipline only during durations of stress.

Stress-survivors realize the more we perform discipline, the more perfected we become; thereby reducing lots and lots of stress.

Without discipline, we're apt to invite unnecessary stresses that possibly could be avoided. More often than not, we're caught in the middle of, or millimeters away from, full-blown stresses; all because of lack of discipline.

Stress-survivors are learning to implement definite courtesies to avoid stress caused from chaos and confusion. We realize the magnitude of premeditated actions and reactions, and accelerated disciplines.

We stress-survivors have no doubt that "Discipline" can make a tremendous difference in the way we handle stress.


Peace I leave with you . . .

A DISCERNING SPIRIT

NOTE: Please pardon our absence for the past few weeks. Circumstances summoned elsewhere.

Quite often, stress-survivors share a most unique testimony: The more we experience life, the more unbelievable it becomes.

Things we wouldn't have ever imagined . . . people we wouldn't have ever suspected . . . troubles we wouldn't have touched with a ten-foot pole, have somehow bewitched our lives and sent us straight into a stressful mode.

While stresses of any kind are rarely welcomed, there's no stress more damaging than those unexpected ones. These are the ones that stress the heart, mind, and soul.

Searching ourselves--and all else--with a great many why-comes and why-me, stress-survivors unanimously agree that it's wise to develop a discerning spirit.

A discerning, or wise, spirit can largely affect the direction, the degree, and the damage of most stresses.

Harboring a discerning spirit, stress-survivors learn to sidestep senseless stress and to carefully consider the stresses that unexpectedly bombard our lives.

If there's ever a time when stress-survivors desperately need discernment, the time is NOW.

Please, be encouraged: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." ~ James 1:5

Peace I leave with you . . .

MEMORIES

"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report;if there be any virture, and if there be any praise, think on these things." ~Philippians 4:8, KJV

Yep . . . we've all got "Memories." Pleasant ones. Unpleasant ones.

As much as we love revisiting pleasant memories, it's amazing how unpleasant ones can affect us. Unpleasant memories conjure more stresses than we would image.

What, for the sake of stress, do we do with hurtful and heartbreaking memories that keep us irritated, sad, and depressed?

A while back, we were advised to write our woeful memories on paper, tie the paper with string and attach it to balloons, letting those balloons carry all our stressful memories away.

Stress-survivors nowadays feel the need to banish our bad memories in a more effective way. What we reccommend to end the concentration of bad memories is to crowd them out--by creating new ones. Good ones.

In our quest to eliminate stress, we must be willing to constantly separate the good from the bad. That's why it's important to treasure sweet memories and toss away stressful ones.

Not sure how to end stressful memories and make sweet ones all over again?

For starters, we begin by thinking good thoughts; doing good deeds; sharing good company; and of course, trusting the goodness of God.

When stress-survivors have contributed all we're capable of, we relinquish our stand and rely on God for renewed and right relationships--bigger and better opportunities--liberal and lasting peace--and an abundance of precious memories.

Peace I leave with you . . .

REMEMBERING

REMEMBERING

THE LIVES

OF

LOST LOVED ONES.

SEPTEMBER 11

FOR WHATEVER REASON

"The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: . . ."
Deuteronomy 29:29a

Things happen for a reason.

Yes, stress-survivors agree that there are no coincidences.

Whether we are aware of definite reasons or not, we believe reasons exist for everything that happens.

As much as stress-survivors hold firm to this belief, when unfortunate circumstances come our way, it is still stressful.

Because we desire to handle stress constructively--without falling apart at the onset of every incident--we approach whatever betides us with as much faith and fortitude as we can muster.

Sure, things do happen. . . things we like . . . things we don't like. But for whatever reason these things do or do not happen, stress-survivors believe there's always a contributing cause.

As for why things happen when, where, and how they do, we don't dare claim to know how to fit pieces to stressful puzzles. That's why we delight in knowing that the secret things belong to God, for He knows all.

However clueless or uncomfortable our lack of reasons may be, and with whatever stresses may arise, stress-survivors continue trusting in God for guidance, protection, answers, inspiration, and HIS PEACE that surpasses all our understanding.

Peace I leave with you . . .

LEGACY OF LOVE

". . . With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."

Matthew 19:26

In her recent bestseller, fiction novelist, Adriana Trigiani, wrote: "I have not had the true love I had hoped for in my life, and now, I wonder if it is even possible."

It is no surprise the majority of stress-survivors have entertained similar words--or thoughts. Sad to say, rocky relationships is as close as many of us have come to sharing true love.

Our legacy of love--or lack thereof--can contribute to the greatest degree of stress in the history of stresses.

Thinking our love life would fall in line with our most intimate and deepest dreams, but instead, struggling to keep dying "infatuations" alive, stress-survivors encounter major disappointments and pain.

There are some who insist the legacy of love is overrated, and deduce their lives to the irony that "Love is a Luxury few of us can afford."

Although few stress-survivors can claim never having stressed over love, we cling to the belief that love--true love--is a gift from God.

Because stress-survivors believe that Love's Legacy originates with God, we remain confident that, of ourselves, true love may seem impossible, but with God a legacy of love is indeed possible.

Peace I leave with you . . .

GREAT CHAMPIONS

* After our last Let's De-Stress Newsletter, a fellow stress-survivor shared this concern: "You always speak to my heart, however, what happens when every move I make FORWARD, looking back keeps hitting me in the FACE?" . . . ~Puzzled M.

This Newsletter is a follow-up to that concern.

"Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize?

So run, that ye may obtain." ~ 1 Corinthians 9:24

TO BE SURE, moving forward--in spite of past obstacles--requires tremendous strength and courage.

For the sake of familiarity, let's consider the game of football--particularly unforgettable champions. In the world of football, champions are esteemed for their ability to persevere to the goal line--to make that grand touchdown.

Strangely enough, football champions and stress-survivors have a lot in common--both must be fearless and forthright.

With every offense they face, great champions continue to maneuver their way. When tackled by hard-hitting and body-slamming blows, champions strategically weave in . . . out . . . and all around to find a victorious path.

However clever the offense becomes, great champions are determined to beat the obstacles. If they err, they keep on running; If they fall down, they get back up--and keep on running. Whatever action that puts them closer to that goal, they do it.

But here's the thing: Great champions prepare to be the best at their game. They think positively. . . Strategize profoundly. . . . proceed professionally . . . And practice, practice, practice. Even when unsure of how a particular play will result, all-around winners charge ahead anyhow. They continuously play to win.

As stress-survivors, we are not always certain of each solution as we move forward in the game of life, but with die-hard determination, we continue running toward our goal.

Like that of great football champions, stress-survivors strength, confidence, and sheer determination insures success upon success, and inspires us to win the war against stress. Touchdown!

Peace I leave with you . . .

P.S. Please feel free to keep those comments/questions coming.

LOOKING BACK

"But his (Lot's) wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt."
~Genesis 19:26 ~ (Italics mine)

Question . . .
What would we do differently if we had the chance to do it over again?

Could--or would--we orchestrate our affairs less stressful the second time around?

Maybe. Maybe not. Point is, looking back at misfortunes and mistakes has proven to be quite stressful. What we left behind--voluntarily or involuntarily--can affect us in all sorts of negative ways.

Stress-survivors have faced many adversities back there. We know what it's like to be mistreated; to be misunderstood; to spend sleepless nights on pillows wet with tears. Oh, yes, we've partaken of the past.

But despite our heartaches, worries, and regrets, what's done is done. And all the looking back in the world won't erase that.

If we insist on looking back and brooding over what has or has not happened, we, like Lot's wife, can be faced with dire consequences--definite stresses.

Which is why stress-survivors contend that the time woefully devoted to looking back could be wisely dedicated to looking forward; finding ways to reinvent, restore, and reduce a whole lot of stress.

Peace I leave with you . . .

WHICH WAY IS UP?

"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths." ~ Psalm 25:4

Remember Richard Pryor in the movie, Which Way Is Up?

On his "way up," Pryor's lifestyle clearly revealed how conniving, cheating, and disregard for others, created confusion and stress. ... Not only for himself--but for all involved.

Seeking our way up can be exhausting and stressful . . . especially if we're not seeking the right way. When we seek in wrong places or with wrong people or wrong principles, we open ourselves to numerous stresses.

At one time or another, stress-survivors have questioned "Which way is up?" Regardless of which side of the fence we've roamed--victim or villain--we've witnessed the outcome of erroneous actions.

Countless experiences have convinced us that the way up does not call for taintedness, but instead requires honesty, decency, and respect.

As evident with actor Pryor, unscrupulous behavior may boost egos and may even satisfy for a spell, but it ultimately fails to render a successful way up.

In our quest to be better individuals and to acquire better health, wealth and happiness--believing that God's way is the number one "way up"--stress-survivors seek directions from Him.

Peace I leave with you . . .

BOUNCING BACK

"Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;"

2 Corinthians 4:9

Ever noticed how perils and persecution complicate things?

Amazing, huh?

The interruption of things we've known and grown accustomed to doing--or having--or being--can obviously create stress.

Sure, stress-survivors have to contend with this, too. But we're determined to not be disillusioned or destroyed by the likes of stress. We are resolved to "bouncing back" . . . again and again.

Although the concept of Bouncing Back is not a new one, it's nonetheless challenging. . .and, in many instances, quite stressful. Truth is, it requires a great deal of faith, as well as fearlessness.

As most survivors have discovered, We never know what we can do, until we try.

When cast down and bounced all around, we don't have to quiver and quit. Stress-survivors choose to persevere by embracing our God-given ability for BOUNCING BACK.


Peace I leave with you . . .

REMAIN SILENT

"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
. . . a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;"
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7b

You have the right to remain silent; anything you say can be used against you . . .

So says the law.

Just as these words are serious warnings to criminals concerning unlawful behavior, they equally apply to stress and stressful behavior.

Whether currently in a stressful situation or not, surely we've all witnessed how battling back and forth--in whatever form or fashion--can lead to mega stresses.

Though it's not always easy, stress survivors see the difference that remaining silent can make. When we anticipate chaos and confusion with family, friends, or foes, it is our inalienable right to remain silent.

Often, peace prevails in the midst of silence. As stress-survivors, we understand why more and more of us seek our own peaceful sanctuay. And because we're so diligent in pursuing peace, we'd do well to exercise our rights.

Not only do we have the right to remain silent, but even more impressive we have the right to avoid stress by whatever means necessary.

Peace I leave with you . . .

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

A Single Red Rose

Adorned with black and gray,

Dedicated to all Fathers

Wishing them HAPPY FATHER'S DAY.

HAPPY EASTER!

FALLING

"In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." ~ John16:33 ~

Oh my . . . Oh no . . . They fell!

Long time ago, Jack and Jill had a great fall. And the story of those two stopped there.

Last week, Dancing With The Stars contestants, Kirstie Alley and her partner Maksim, had just begun their dance routine when they fell to the floor.

But they didn't stop there. The couple quickly regained their poise and displayed an unforgettable example of falling and gracefully getting back up.

If anyone can identity with the stress of falling, stress-survivors can.

Oh, yes, we do fall. Sometimes hard. Most times unexpectedly. And each unfortunate incident brings about mega-anxiety and stress.

Falling, time after time, has taught stress-survivors to focus not so much on the fall, but much more so on what we to do after the fall.

When stress-survivors fall down, we get up . . . and look up . . . and pray up.

Make no mistake, overcoming can be challenging; but with God's grace, we can overcome every obstacle and every fall; then move on and live life to the fullest.

Peace I leave with you . . .

HAPPY ENDINGS

According to the advice of our elders, "All is well that ends well."

Many experts insist "There's a rainbow at the end of the storm."

In other words, we can count on happy endings. Except . . . ...

"ALL" doesn't always end well; and rainbows sometimes never appear.

No doubt, each not-ending-well experience involves frustration and stress. ...

Many stress-survivors have resolved to personal pursuits for happy endings.We seek to create rainbows of our own and to color our lives bright and beautiful by doing something we love.

For all the stressful things that life demand we do--whether we want to or not--to have a special something that we love is a welcomed relief for stress.

A friend of a friend once shared that he spent every day, doing something he loved. He swore that that was the key to his peace and happiness. ... .

Think about it. Are we doing something we love EVERY DAY to enhance our Happiness? .... .... .


Peace I leave with you . . .

PROVING A POINT

"For whatosever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." ~ 1 John 5:4 ~

Thinking along the lines as the rest of the world, we often encounter issues where we feel it necessary to prove a point.

It is absolutely unbelievable the things some of us will do while trying to prove points, or justify actions.

Although people can definitely provoke us at times, stress-survivors cannot expect to behave in worldly ways and not end up in a world of trouble.

When we fail to consider what's really involved in proving our point and all the energies and emotions attached, we overlook the obvious initiation of stress.

Setting the stage for point-proving creates an atmosphere for stress. No matter how insignificant our proof may seem, there's always a risk for stress.

The best way that we stress-suvivors have dealt with the burden of proof is "Let Go and Let God." No fretting...No fussing...No stressing. Just faith in God.

Stress-survivors believe all that needs to be known can, and will, be manifested by God. It is with this faith that we keep still and allow God to reveal all things.

Peace I leave with you . . .

THE POWER OF LOVE

Love is patient, love is kind.

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking,

it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts,

always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

PEACE

The Lord bless you, and keep you;

The Lord make His face shine on you,

and be gracious to you;

The Lord lift up His countenance on you,

and give you peace.

.

Numbers 6:24-26

WALK BY FAITH

"For we walk by faith, not by sight."
II Corinthians 5:7 (KJV)

WHO IS willing to walk by faith?
WHAT IS it like to walk by faith?
WHEN IS it time to walk by faith?
WHERE IS it the right place to walk by faith?
WHY IS it that stress-survivors walk by faith?

After we've tried repeatedly to walk away from stress and discovered that whatever direction we turn, we're confronted with stress, we eventually come to the conclusion that we cannot continue to walk stressful paths.

Therefore, stress-survivors have decided to walk by faith.

Walking by faith is doing what God says do, when He says do it, and how He says do it. This we do, not selectively for certain situations, but in all things and at all times.

Sure, there are instances when it seems like our faith walk is not effective and that we continue stepping in the same old ruts. But let's not be discouraged by the way things may seem.

We'd do well to remember the old adage "Looks can be deceiving." They really can--especially when walking by faith. Just because we see--or don't see--something this minute doesn't mean we will or won't see it the next minute.

And it "ain't" Abracadabra!

When we trust in the Lord with our whole heart and lean not to our own understanding, we take issues from our feeble hands (the natural) and place them in God's powerful hands (the supernatural).

Knowing that God sees, hears, and understands everything in this world, we leave our stresses to Him. In the meantime, we keep trusting . . . keep believing . . . and keep walking by faith.

Peace I leave with you . . .

THE TWINKLING OF AN EYE

". . . a catastrophe you cannot foresee will suddenly come upon you."
Isaiah 47:11b, NKJV

Ask any stress-surviors and we will testify how quickly things can change.

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No doubt, we've all had experiences when everything was going so good, and without the slightest warning--in the twinkling of an eye--things changed.
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Sound familiar?
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It might be personal or professional, and even sometimes spiritual, but catastrophes can come upon us so quickly, that we're more than "knocked off our feet," we're left out on a limb, wondering what to do.
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Now here's the big question: Is there a way to make ourselves immune to the stresses that so suddenly attack us?

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Hardly. . . But there is hope. Stress-survivors have learned how to look for hope in whatever, or whoever, upsets us.

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What we recommend to endure times of sudden stresses is to keep our eyes stayed on the Lord. We offer God's promise in Isaiah 26:3, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee:"

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Stress-survivors cling to that promise like birds clinging to a single life-saving branch. We've tried it and we know it's true.

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But don't take our word, try God yourselves and see won't He, in the twinkling of an eye, do just what He said.

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Peace I leave with you . . .

WAIT ON THE LORD

Have you not known?

Have you not heard?

The everlasting God, the Lord,

The Creator of the ends of the earth,

Neither faints nor is weary.

His understanding is unsearchable.

He gives power to the weak,

And to those who have no might

He increases strength.

Even the youths shall faint and be weary,

And the young men shall utterly fall,

But those who wait on the Lord

Shall renew their strength;

They shall mount upwith wings like eagles,

They shall run and not be weary,

They shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 40:28-31 (NKJV)