Rest Assured

Stress is no fun. Whether as a student cramming before an important exam, a parent juggling the demands of work and family, a relative or close friend of someone facing a serious health problem, a professional struggling to stay current, or one of millions trying to stay on their feet in a shaky economy, everyone has experienced the debilitating effects of stress.

Some of the primary causes of stress may have changed since the Bible was written, but the Bible’s instruction and promises on the subject are as valid now as they were thousands of years ago.

God promises peace to those who turn to Him.

The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.—Psalm 29:11

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.—Matthew 11:28

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you.—John 14:27

Counter worry with prayer.

Be anxious for nothing, but let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds.—Philippians 4:6–7

Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you.—Psalm 55:22

Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.—1 Peter 5:7

Stay close to God.

Now acquaint yourself with Him, and be at peace.—Job 22:21

My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.—Exodus 33:14

You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.—Isaiah 26:3

I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.—Psalm 16:8

Trust in God’s unfailing love and care.

Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.—Matthew 10:29,31

He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?—Romans 8:32

I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.—Romans 8:38–39