How to Stay Calm In an Insane World

So many of us are currently battling anxiety; a mere glance at the headlines confirms why. If current events have tangled your heart with apprehension and stress has gripped your soul, I get it. The world is uglier and darker than just 18 months ago (and on many levels so much worse than I ever imagined witnessing), and what I’ve come to realize is that what worked prior to The Crazy That Is Now Our Planet won’t necessarily cut it today.

Here are some tips that help me. I trust they will help you maintain a calm heart, in spite of what’s going on in your life and around the world.

Pay attention to what you’re focusing on. It’s good to be informed. It’s not good to be obsessed. Watching the news, scrolling through social media to cull information, and the quest for updates on current events are understandable, even essential to a degree. And there’s nothing wrong with keeping apprised of what’s happening nationally (or even worldwide). Especially so we can pray. But our hearts were not designed to accumulate a constant barrage of information, facts, and (let’s face it) darkness that is reported 24/7. When we spend too much time absorbing distressing information, it will negatively affect us.

Recognize that peace is an intentional choice that requires effort. Peace doesn’t automatically fall into our hearts and minds, it must be sought and chosen. We do that by making time for daily scripture reading, prayer, and worship. Jesus is the Prince of Peace, and though He is always with us (Matthew 28:20) , we must choose to acknowledge Him and spend time with Him. His presence in our daily, moment by moment real life changes everything.

Don’t underestimate unplugging. Our souls crave peace and quiet. Unplugging from technology helps us recharge and gives us time to ponder and relax. I love connecting with nature. A walk or bike ride refreshes me as I take in the fresh air, the bird’s songs, the gorgeous clouds. Not a fan of outdoors? Soak in a bubble bath. Meet a friend for tea or coffee. Read a good book. Take a nap. Bake cookies. Make the choice to let your soul recharge.

Don’t underestimate worship. This week has been rough for many. The heartbreaking mess in Afghanistan weighs heavy. In my home we also had sickness, among other things. All in all, it was an overwhelming week. My stress level was so high I felt on the verge of tears several times. So I went into my bedroom, closed the door, and I worshiped two ways. (1) I played my favorite worship song on repeat, allowing it to wash over me. As I sang and worshiped God’s presence rushed in and seriously calmed my heart. And (2) I opened up the YouVersion Bible App and played Psalm 23 on speaker mode, listening to it (and joining in) over and over.

Stay Connected to Scripture at All Costs. Now is not the time to skip your daily Bible reading. Scripture is living and active, it transforms us, teaches us, and fills us with truth. Our hearts and minds desperately need truth now more than ever. If you don’t have a One YearBible get one. They’re awesome. Reading 15-20 minutes daily gets you through the entire Bible in a year. I’ve read through various translations more than 15 times, it's life changing!

Remember that You are never alone. Oh, how we need to know this! He is always with us. He is in the fire with us (Daniel 3:8-25). He never leaves us or forsakes us (Hebrews 13:5-6). He is for us (Romans 8:31). And nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38). This perspective comforts and reassures our hearts.


Through my books I love to help readers know God, know Scripture, and know how to pray. Click on the images below to learn more about each book.

             

2 comments:

McEwen's Wife said...

Awesome. Thank you. Sharing with my Life Group tomorrow.

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