WHEN FRUSTRATION SETS IN

Let's face it, we all get frustrated from time to time. Some weeks we get flustered all seven days! But why? Aren't Christians supposed to rise above the daily irritants of life here at the third rock from the sun? Theoretically? Yes. Realistically? No!

Biblically, the Holy Spirit has revealed the divine formula for overcoming stress, daily frustrations and aggravations. Listen to what Paul wrote in Philippians 4:6: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God" (NKJV). I would say those in the church who fail to pray and ask for blessings and guidance each day are ill-prepared to face the onslaughts of the daily aggravations that can so easily take a toll on our hearts and daily walk with God. Why would a Christian live like that? Baffling.

There was an Old Testament prophet who got so frustrated that he took it out on God. Yes, that's right. He didn't like the fact that God wasn't punishing His people for their sins, and he liked even less God's plan to chastise and discipline His people by the hands of the Babylonians. Truth is, Habakkuk just could not be pleased, until he slowed down and listed to God. When he finally decided to listen to the Word of God, notice what the prophet said, "O LORD, I have heard Your speech and was afraid..." (3:2a) and "When I heard my body trembled..." (3:16a).

So, do you want to handle life's daily irritants much better? Slow dow, listen to God's Word and pray often. We can do it! This world is not our home.

Steve Harris