We’re all living in a great period of history – in some ways we have it better than any of our ancestors when it comes to modern conveniences and technology. But we all know these advances don’t always protect us from the realities of life – poor economy, illness, broken relationships, and all other forms of hardship and loss. It can leave us feeling overwhelmed. God knows life on this earth can be difficult. His promises are lifelines for anyone to grab hold of.  Like a life preserver in a stormy sea, His word gives us hope on the days when we’re feeling overwhelmed.

What does the Bible say?

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. (Romans 8:28)

If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. (Jeremiah 29:13)

Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you. (Psalm 143:8)

Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:30-31)

For the mountains may move and the hills disappear, but even then my faithful love for you will remain. My covenant of blessing will never be broken,” says the Lord, who has mercy on you. (Isaiah 54:10)

See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The Lord God is my strength and my song; he has given me victory.” (Isaiah 12:2)

Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines;
even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights. (Habakuk 3:17-19)

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8)

So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (1 Peter 5:6-7)

Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things? (Luke 12:22-26)

Some practical helps when life feels out of control:

Prayer is a great tool when you are overwhelmed – focusing on God’s promises rather than the problems gives a new perspective. Talk to someone you trust. Sometimes getting another perspective helps. Ask for help. What responsibilities could you share with others so you don’t have to carry such a heavy load? Many things that overwhelm us we have no control over, but some things we can change. Make a list and choose one thing at a time to work on. Make sure you are taking care of your health. Some stress can keep us moving forward and on track, but too much can be harmful. Get a good night’s sleep – often times things look brighter in the morning! Don’t use being overwhelmed as an excuse to over eat or drink. To much “comfort food”, caffeine, or alcohol can cause serious health issues. Their “numbing” effect is only temporary