“The Lord gives strength to the people,
The Lord blesses the people with peace.” Psalm 24:11

God is with you, accompanying you through every challenge you face. You may experience loneliness, but you are never alone. You may feel helpless, but Christ offers tools and inspiration so we can help ourselves, and others.

This article is a continuation of last week’s article that focused on simple strategies to manage stress and mental health challenges. (Read last week’s article on the blog here.) This week, let’s examine how your faith life can play a significant role in managing stress and anxiety of all varieties, but especially as we continue to transition to post-pandemic life. 

Let God Handle It

God made you. God loves you unconditionally. This radical love, given with no strings attached, shows you how to generously love yourself and others, too. You are free to eliminate all the unimportant grievances and judgments from your mind to make room for peace.

And remember...You are not “in charge!” Relinquish control to God and feel the freedom in knowing that your best is enough. God will take care of the rest. 

Connect To Your Faith Community

As we have said at Saint Peter Lutheran Church for a long time, “We are better together!” When you feel a connection to others in your church community, it can result in a sense of belonging and joy. (I know because I’ve felt it many times!)

There are many ways to connect. Join the Faith in Action Team for a movie discussion or book study (See the newsletter and calendar for future events.) Help out with the kids at this summer’s day camp. Dedicate time to assist the tech team. Become a worship leader! 

Talk To Someone

Seek a mentor, a great listener, a counselor or even an StPLC Stephen Minister to talk things out.

Help Others To Help Yourself.

Volunteer at Joshua Station, Covenant Cupboard, Dress For Success, The Delores Project, Christ in the City, Casa de Paz, Lutheran Family Services and Habitat For Humanity. Many Saint Peter members are already involved with these organizations and frequently share news in the weekly newsletter. You can always call the church office to get connected, too!

Pray. Pray. Pray.

• Is there someone you admire spiritually? Meet for a cup of coffee. Become prayer partners. Ask questions.

• Pray the labyrinth. We have details/instructions on the StPLC website here: https://www.stplc.org/our-life-together/2018/12/12/a-guide-to-walking-the-saint-peter-labyrinth

• Pick up a spiritual prayer practice that works for you: journaling, meditation or lectio divina to name a few.

Practice Gratitude

Science has proven what many people of faith have known for a long time: when you practice gratitude you wire your brain to recognize the positive. It also guides you to reflect on ways God is using you for a greater purpose. Here are some prompts to get you started. 

• What do you value most in your life?

• Who/what inspires you and brings you joy?

• Who/what inspires you and gives you hope?

• When do you feel “on fire” in your faith?

• What generous activities inspire your personal growth?

The bottom line is this: If you feel stressed, uneasy, depressed or just plain troubled, focus on your faith. You may be surprised by the calm you find. And, remember, you are part of a  larger community that is here for you to get connected, get help and give back. Again, we are always “better together.”

Mary Pratt, a StPLC Stephen Minister and Family Ministries leader, wrote this article (with an assist from Sara Lancaster), which includes ideas from the Mayo Clinic article entitled “Stress Management, Taking the Path Less Traveled by Exploring Your Spirituality.”

If you or someone you know is struggling and could use a listening ear, reach out to stephenministry@stplc.org.