Dealing with the Pressures of Life

“The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one Shepherd.  Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them. Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.  Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.  For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:11-14 NIV)

It is the time of year on college campuses where much study has wearied the bodies of students.  It has been a long year, full of pressure, and where they have often wondered if there is no end to the books professors will have them read.  They are tired and ready for the summer break.

It is easy for people under stress to be all consumed with the tasks causing all the pressure. Unfortunately, we live in a world where the pressures of life, be they academic, professional, social, or familial, never really abate.  They are a constant presence regardless of our age or stage in life.  To allow oneself to be all consumed by the pressures of the moment is to risk living a life that is both void of joy and absent of discipline.  To borrow a quote from James, we are like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed about by the wind. (James1:6)

In the world in which we live, the words of the Teacher are a good reminder of the importance of not losing sight of our purpose in the midst of the turbulent winds of life—to respect God and to keep His commands.  It is in living out this purpose that we will find stability and peace in a life that tends to push us away from both.  

So, today, regardless if you are a student, an employee, a spouse, a parent, or any combination of these, and are finding the pressures of these roles consuming you, don’t lose sight of your ultimate purpose. The Lord is your first priority and commitment.  And it is in Him you will find relief from the pressures that are weighing you down.  For it is He who says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV)

© Jim Musser 2016