I had a conversation with a lifelong friend this week that made me step back and think about how I manage difficult situations.  I rarely think or worry about any situation.  If it is not productive, I don’t spend time thinking about what could be or might be, I just move forward knowing that Jesus will guide me so long as I pay attention and listen for the clues. 

It is rare that I even want to talk about difficult situations. There are some exceptions, particularly when I or others can learn from the mistake or issue.  For the most part, talking about negative things is exhausting to me. 

Listening to others is not a problem.  However, when I am engaging in a conversation I would much rather talk about productive topics, rather than my issues which I know will be solved by Jesus.  It is pointless for me to dwell on the issues because Jesus knows my path, I simply have to learn to relax, pray, and listen.

As I write this blog I have a smile on my face because relaxing on demand is not an easy thing to accomplish.  However, in order to move past difficult situations I have to be able to relax and give away my worries.  Most things we worry about are not productive.  The problem is worrying has become a big part of many peoples every day lives.  It is crippling and prevents us from moving forward with a solution.

For me, prayer is an important part of releasing my worries to Jesus.  I ask for Jesus’ help with clearing my mind and providing a solution to the issue at hand.   

Every time I feel worry and stress building, I immediately pray.  For me praying is not a once-and-done thing.  Depending on the depth of the problem or worry, I often spend some serious time talking silently to Jesus.  It doesn’t matter what I am doing or where I am, if my thoughts increase my stress level, I pray.    

Personally, the first two steps, relaxing and praying, have been the easiest of the three steps.  Listening, the third step is often a challenge for me.  I may have to give my worries away hundreds of times, but I am aware of when I need to release the stress and pray.  Listening is a challenge for me, I don’t want to miss my path.  The good news is every time I miss the mark, Jesus alters the plan and puts me back on course. 

All the chaos in the world makes it difficult to be still and listen.  There are so many directions we can be pulled.  How do we know that we are following the right path?  For me, my body is at peace.  The worry is gone.  I give thanks to Jesus.    

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