Caught in a Net

In a chapter entitled, "Stress," author Gregory Dickow says that we must recognize stress as an enemy, a net set for us by the devil.* 

"If you put a net up in front of a bird, he’s going to fly around it, over it, or turn around and go the other direction. He sees his enemy and he avoids it." 

 Surely in vain, the net is spread in the sight of any bird (Proverbs 1:17).

Businesses have reaped billions of dollars by capitalizing on ways to overcome stress. Annually, $875 billion dollars are spent on tranquilizers!** Then there are sports clubs, health spas, "stress-free" vacations, best sellers on how to alleviate stress and books on why stress can be a positive factor in your life. It has become such a common denominator in our culture that we take its existence for granted.

Instead of trying to "deal with stress," wouldn't it be better to discipline myself to "pause" before getting caught up in the tangled net of stress?  

Recognizing stress as a ploy of the enemy helps me put things in perspective and I become aware of my need to go to that quiet space hidden in God where I can be renewed in His presence and strengthened by His Word.

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust" (Psalm 91:1-2). 

 

...And may you be as "free as a bird" in Christ during this holiday season! 

* Taking Charge of Your Emotions! By Gregory Dickow (page 75).

** Breaking the Grip of Dangerous Emotions By Janet Maccaro, Ph.D., C.N.C. (page 22).