Can God make a difference with my stress?

  Firstly, let me say it’s totally normal to feel stressed about exams and assignments. We want to do well, we want to pass our exams, we want to meet expectations – these are all good things!

The reason we get stressed is because of the uncertainty that comes – we can’t be sure if we will do well, or pass or even meet expectations. The truth is, that if there was no uncertainty, if everything was totally in our control, we wouldn’t get stressed at all. But here’s the thing – we don’t and can’t control everything! (and by the way that’s probably a good thing!)

When it comes to Christianity one of the often-quoted Bible verses about worry and stress is this one…

‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.’   – Philippians 4:6-7

But the question is – what does this mean? Does it mean that if we pray to God he will zap us with a feeling of peace? Does it mean he’ll instantly take away our worry?

Well, not quite. This verse isn’t promising an instant feeling of serenity, rather it’s saying when you’re anxious go to the God who is in control and ask him for help. Go to the God of the universe remembering that Jesus’ death means you can be at peace with God. See, the good news of Christianity is that if you trust in Jesus, God is no longer your judge but your friend and Father – Jesus died to bring peace.

So how does that help with your stress? Well, if you know that the Powerful One who is in control of everything is also the Personal One who loves you, cares for you and has your best at heart – then that will not only give you something to be thankful for in the midst of your stress but it will also guard your heart and mind from anxiety.

So when you feel anxious – Remember God, Go to him, thank him for his love, thank him for the Gospel, and ask him who cares for you to help you.

Also – check out these awesome exam study tips too…