Garden Bench Time
"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 mind in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
Jesus gave us the best examples of dealing with stress. He always found time to be alone with God, even in the midst of His demanding ministry. Gardens and the outdoors gave Jesus joy and a quiet place to think and pray. He rowed across lakes; He walked in the wilderness. He followed God's timetable even when pressed to rush to the side of a dying friend. When He was preparing to give His life for us on the cross, He made time to be still in the garden and pray.
We need to plan for daily quiet times with God. But plan at least once a year (or more often) to get a full day or a weekend just to sit and to be quiet somewhere away from your normal responsibilities. Sit and listen to God; talk with Him. If you are married you could do this as a couple. Write it in your schedule like your yearly dentist visit. It's even more essential to your well being. Take a pen, paper or journal and your Bible.
Try it. A little "garden bench" time will change your life.
Journal Thoughts: List the first things that come into your head when you think about stress in your life. Hand these to God. Ask Him to give you creative ideas on dealing with them in a proactive way. Write down some positive plans.
Today's devotion taken from: "Growing by Heart" by Scharlotte Rich