When Everything Seems to Go Wrong

On days like today when everything seems to go wrong, it can be a little difficult to remember that God has everything handled. Stress comes. It's part of life. There will be times when we're stressed. We just don't have to stay stressed.

From the time I woke up this morning until just a few minutes ago, I was really, really stressed. Even now, I'm still a little stressed.

Here's a list of what went wrong with my day:

• I gave my doctor a medical release form on Monday which he was supposed to send to my dentist; they need it by this afternoon
• Until an hour ago, they hadn't received it.
• I called his office this morning and couldn't get a concrete answer.
• I was expecting a call back about a job interview next week
• I'd have to do it later in the week if I can do it at all
• I'm having my wisdom teeth extracted on Monday (hence the medical release)!
• My computer tried to break.
• Updates were installed that apparently didn't work right, and it quit on me. Twice.
• I don't have all my files backed up.
• I cannot afford a new computer.

So, that's what went wrong with my day. Little things aren't that stressful. Individually. When these things stack up, it can be a little overwhelming.

On days like today, I like to take a moment to breathe. It doesn't matter when, or where. I just take a breath, and remember that God has everything under control, and one day the little stuff won't matter. I also like to force myself to think of reasons why I've had a good day (even if I don't feel like it's true). I can always-always- come up with at least one reason. Today, for example, my good day came in the form of little kittens, and the animal shelter where I volunteer.

It's okay to be stressed sometimes. It's how we handle the stress that counts. We can't take our stress out on others. It's a good idea to mention whatever is stressing us out to God. He does want to hear about it, even if we end up whining a little. Even if He doesn't fix it right away, know that He does care, and that tomorrow will be better.

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"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).