You are overwhelmed by the demands of life. There is so much to do, and you can not keep up. The all-consuming anxiety and stress are too much to bear. In this blog, I will discuss how you can relieve anxiety and stress with one simple tip- put the first thing first.
Before reading, check out my blog: Christian Counseling Blog: An Introduction. There I discuss what to expect when reading my blogs.
Relieve Anxiety and Stress: Put the First thing First.
What is the first thing? God.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33.
I was sitting in church service when this blog idea came to me. My pastor quoted C.S. Lewis- “when first things are put first, second things are not suppressed but increased.”
That quote made everything click for me. As a society, we are stressed and overwhelmed with daily tasks, work, the information we consume, etc.
I noticed in my own life that I was putting the first thing last. Therefore, I started to change things up. I began putting Jesus first. I noticed a decrease in my stress and anxiety.
Now, life is not perfect. However, there is a way to reduce the stress and anxiety in your life. Start knowing your priorities.
Relieve Anxiety and Stress: Know your Priorities
Know your priorities and list them from most important to least important. Writing this out will provide visual help for you to navigate your day-to-day moments.
God
God needs to be first on your priority list. Not only is God first, but He is also part of all other priorities. Therefore, God is first and at the center of all we do.
We do not need to stress about all these things. Love God and love others. He will be faithful with the rest.
Family and Friends
Our family and friends come second. Christians married with children; the family structure is spouse second and children third. God has given you children for stewardship. Children will leave home and go on their own. Marriage is a bond that lasts forever on this side of heaven. Therefore, your spouse comes before your children.
“Therefore what God has joined together. let no one separate”. Mark 10:9
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” Philippians 2:3
“And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:39
Work
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ” Colossians 3:23-24.
Third, do your work well. God has a purpose for your work, whether you like your job or not. Therefore, work for the Lord, not men.
Other
The other category consists of your passions, hobbies, etc. For example, I love writing. However, writing is at the bottom of my list of priorities. It does not come before the other responsibilities God has entrusted me with, such as raising my children.
I believe God has called me to write. Therefore, He will allow time for me to write, and He has.
It is important to note that we need to take our passions and hobbies to God. Therefore, how we spend our time and what we give our energy to should align with the will of God.
Relieve Anxiety and Stress: Application Tips
Schedule time with God
Find a time of the day to spend 20-40 min studying the word and praying. For me, it is morning.
Technology is great. You can get a Bible app and listen to the Bible. Therefore, you are without excuse. You can listen while driving to work.
Mindfulness
Do not consume your mind with all that needs to get done. Therefore, be in the moment with each task. Do one thing at a time.
Daily priority list
Make a daily list of what needs to get done from most important to least important.
Use your time wisely
When you have time, use it wisely. Therefore, do not use your time scrolling or engaging in other useless activities.
Relieve Anxiety and Stress: Conclusion
“Sometimes life is so hard You can only do the next thing. Whatever that is just do the next thing. God will meet you there”- Elisabeth Elliot.
I love this quote. God is going to meet you there. Be in God’s will and do the next thing. Our purpose in life is to know God and commune with Him.
Therefore, Follow His lead. Be faithful to Him first. God will provide you with all He has called you to. I find great comfort in knowing He is in control. His plans for your life are better than yours.
“Put first things first and second things are thrown in. Put second things first and you lose both first and second things” -C.S Lewis.
Anxiety Treatment in Denver, CO, and Miramar Beach, FL
Are you struggling with anxiety? Is it hindering your ability to function in some or all areas of your life? You do not need to be controlled by your anxiety- seek help today. Hi, my name is Amanda Conroy. I am a Christian therapist. I provide online anxiety treatment in CO and FL.
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If you are interested in starting therapy and want to know if we are a good fit, schedule a free 20-min phone consultation. I look forward to hearing from you.
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