This article is written by Rev. Marcus Schrader, President of Workforce Chaplains. In this series on work, we are sharing biblical wisdom for the workplace.
Most people are stressed out at work. So how can they find help with their stressful situations?
As a Workforce Chaplain to business owners and their employees, I am honored to help remind them of God’s Word when faced with complex, stressful times.
Consider the six biblical truths I often use with people. These truths will help you think about stressful situations from God’s perspective.
1. Prayer (Philippians 4:6-7)
The Bible affirms that we cast our cares on the Lord (Philippians 4:6-7). In times of stress, we can turn to prayer and lay our burdens before God. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us not to be anxious about anything but to present our concerns to the Lord. We can also pray with thanksgiving even when our employer asks us to work late.
2. Trust in God’s Care (Proverbs 3:5-6)
As Christians, we can trust God’s care in our life. Sometimes stress can come when the needs at work take my priority and all my energy. These concerns cause uneasiness in the heart. But we must take these concerns to the Lord. We can acknowledge his wise counsel when facing the pressure of a deadline.
3. Finding Rest (Matthew 11:28-30)
Physical and mental breaks are essential in our work. This includes things like getting up from the computer, taking a walk, and ensuring one eats their lunch free from distraction. Jesus invites us to find rest in him when burdened and overwhelmed. This is both a trust and action on our part to put into practice both a physical and spiritual application.
4. Focusing on the Now (Matthew 6:34)
Stress comes when the pressure increases. (Example: a project deadline) Budget goals, quotas, and other tasks can lead to stress as well. Overtime hours that are not compensated for could lead to stress and fatigue. Our Lord encourages us to not worry about tomorrow’s challenges. This doesn’t mean one shouldn’t plan or manage their work schedule. This is far from Jesus’ words here. Instead, don’t let tomorrow’s deadline, next month’s quota, or next year’s goals/deadlines eat at your soul to the point where you can not produce today’s results.
5. Taking personal care (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
Maintaining physical health through proper rest, nutrition, and exercise can positively impact how we handle stress. The goal in stressful times is to monitor our bodies and reduce triggers. Are you getting enough sleep, eating appropriately, and even exercising?
6. Patience (James 1:2-4)
God is concerned with our trials and our day-to-day activities. Christians can find hope in stressful times by patiently depending on the Lord. Such patience develops endurance.
Conclusion
Remember that all of us face stress in a day. These biblical principles can help us manage that stress, find peace in challenging situations, and grow our faith in Christ. We also recommend that you seek care from a wise source of counsel.
Workforce Chaplains is an organization that ministers to businesses and their people. Employees benefit from spiritual care advisors who listen to their pressing needs and provide wise counsel.
To learn more about the ways our ministry can help you or your workplace, visit this link.
