Jesus .. rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!”. Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.

Mark 4:39 NLT

Loving God, thank you for the gift of the peace and the rest of Jesus. We reflect on the word S.T.R.E.S.S. in the light of your word in the Bible :-

S – Seek God’s guidance.
Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.( Matt 6:33 NIV) Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you (1 Peter 5:7 NIV).
Lord, may we first of all to speak to you about whatever troubles us and to seek the way forward in a way that brings honour to You.

T – Trust what God tells us.
“Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, lean not on your own understanding…” (Proverbs 3: 5-6 NIV)
Lord, You are trustworthy. Thank you that you speak to us through the Bible and in prayer. Increase our faith and trust as step out in the direction You show us.

R – Remember God’s help in the past.
“..nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” ( Romans 8:39 NLT).

We thank you for your promises in Jesus and reflect on the times You have helped us through past difficulties.

E – Exalt God above the problem.
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.(Ps 28:7 NIV)
Almighty God, help us to worship You rather than to worry.  May we not lose sight of your love and goodness.

S – Solicit the prayers and support of others.
Jesus said, “For where 2 or 3 come together in my name I am there with them.” (Matt 18:20 GNT)
Loving God, thank you for community. Thank you for people who will pray with us and for us. Help us to be aware of the needs of others and offer prayerful and practical support.

S – Stand firm.
Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power (Eph 6:10 NIV).  “The helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all I told you” (John 14:26 GNT). Thank you Lord that your grace is sufficient for us. (2 Cor 12:9).

Gracious God, may your Holy Spirit remind us of your words of love, truth and wisdom in the Bible. In times of stress, may we know the assurance of the peace and presence of Jesus in our hearts, as we seek to follow your will and your way.

Ruth Rushworth

S.T.R.E.S.S. Mnemonic taken and adapted from UCB 1-3 Oct 2023

UCB Word for Today
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Bible Versions
NIV – New International Version
NLT – New Living Translation
GNT – Good News Translation