WHEN DOES WORRY BECOME STRESSFUL?
I guess worry is the first step to becoming stressful or full of anxiety. We learn to worry at a very young age, don't we? Our #1 grandson, Adam was a worrier! His parents were very busy which not only consumed most of their days but into the evenings because they were employed by a local church. Being worship leaders and administrators kept them up front which made the church, Adam's second home.

Many times they would drop Adam and of course the other boys as time went on, at our home while they would go off for an engagement at another church or perhaps just time for themselves. When evening would roll around, Adam was expectant. When was his Mom and Dad coming home? I always felt it would be a good thing for his parents to call him often, but they knew best. Good parents always know what is best!

On many occasion he would stand or sit in front of our picture window and watch the road when he felt it was time for them to come and get him. At some point the chairs would be found on the corner of the front yard with Adam waiting and watching. I am not sure when he stopped worrying about whether his Mom and Dad would remember to pick him up, but in time he trusted them, because they always showed up!

Worry is second nature to most! Worry for some becomes a standard! Worry, in the early stages teaches us to use any means to alleviate the fears that bring on worry. Eating is one; craving chocolate could be another. Today, many go for a run or if they have a pool, they do a few laps. If we don't get a handle on the early stages of worry, they grow into stressful periods and eventually anxiety fills our lives and we become depressed. Medicines are recommended and like takes a different turn. If not recognized, we find ourselves spiraling out of control!

During my days of medications, I was spiraling out of control. My days and nights were filled with distress and anxiety. I have empathy for those who experience days like that, don't you? We all have experienced some of these kinds of days! Praise God for the right meds!

A small amount of stress is healthy and a natural part of life. It can help you to do more and be productive. Some people do their best work while under pressure. However, too much is not a good thing! Some events come into our lives that cause the kind of stress that bring on physical and/or emotional/mental illnesses. Too much stress can lead to anxiety which causes us to indulge in unhealthy behavior. Smoking; alcohol and even drugs.

"Anxiety in the heart of a man weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad". Proverbs 12:25 I remember my days of being heavy hearted, only to realize it was my thoughts of constant worry. "Casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you!" 1 Peter 5:7 The next verse says; "Be on the alert, the devil prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." Don't let Satan get the upper hand! Recognize his presence!

We are all familiar with the story of Martha and Mary. In Luke Chapter 10, we find Martha being worried about many things. She was distracted with all her concerns of being a good hostess that she even asked Jesus to help her out, by letting Mary help her. However, in verse 41-42 Jesus says; "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things, but only a few things are necessary; really only one, and Mary has chosen the good part, which should not be taken away from her." The lesson learned here, is to get your preparations done before Bible study in your home, or whatever else is going on. Have the coffee and cookies all ready. Have the dinner on the table and allow yourself to become one of the guests. Don't be so busy serving that you miss the opportunity of taking part in the celebrations. Jane Ann