Scripture
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Reflection
I’ve always felt the stress of trying to meet all of my responsibilities. With a family and a full-time job, there is never enough time to give the proper attention to all of the things and people that matter. I’ve fallen short with my husband and children and I’ve fallen short with my prayer life.
During this pandemic’s stay-at-home order, I’ve had the joy of spending more time with my boys. Our normal crazy pace has often made life feel very stressful. I’ve always struggled with balancing work and home life, and home life usually loses out. So, now we have this chance to slow things down a bit, which is great. Unfortunately, I do still feel stress. I think that all of us are feeling it now, in one way or another.
I struggle to balance the requirements of my job (which I am grateful to still have) with assisting my boys through their school day. Anyone helping with home school can understand that challenge. I hate to tell them, “not now” or “be quiet”. It’s what I’ve been telling them all their lives.
Of course, there’s the stress of cooking three meals a day and being in a constant state of cleaning up. Our finances are strained, as well, and let’s not forget that every time I leave the house to go grocery shopping, I’m praying that I don’t contract the virus.
I feel most of the time that I have no right to feel anything but grateful. The people on the front lines of this pandemic are sacrificing so much. The people who have lost a loved one are suffering so much. I’m just mostly dealing with regular life issues. Sometimes, though, I feel that stress so strongly that it manifests physical symptoms. That’s when I absolutely need to breathe and pray. Of course, I always breathe, but there’s something about closing my eyes and breathing deeply that help calm me. I can feel the Holy Spirit with me in those moments. I’ve found that when I take the time and truly have faith in what I’m praying, God answers with peace for my soul.
Song
Prayer
Dear Lord,
I give you my stress and worries. Please instill in me your peace. Amen
