Interesting things happen when we get under stress. We often act in ways that have not been thought out or say things that we really didn't mean to say. According to Richard Carlson "Stress is nothing more than a socially acceptable form of mental illness." When we are under stress our character is really put to the test. Will we allow it to make us unbalanced or will we keep our focus on the important aspects of our life?
Paul demonstrated extreme stress control as evidenced by his prayers while in prison. I cannot imagine much greater stress than being imprisoned when innocent of any crime. Yet, as Paul wrote to the believers in Philippians 1:9-11 he demonstrated the focus that he had and that he desired for other believers. His prayer was for three things. First he said, "I pray that your love may abound." It is hard for love to abound when we feel that our rights are being trampled but that's the example and counsel Paul gave. Then he encouraged us to "approve the things that are excellent." Keeping our evaluation of the situation and our reaction to it in accord with what is really important to a believer is very difficult when under pressure, but God expects no less. Finally, Paul counseled his readers to "be filled with the fruits of righteousness..." In other words, in spite of what is happening to us we are to respond in a righteous manner.
Quite a task is set before us. Our reaction to the stresses of life must be different than what is typically expected and seen. Our focus must remain on our relationship with God and the affect of our behavior on other believers. As Paul shares the desires of his heart in the midst of a prison situation he declares that the desired fruit is "by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God." As we live out each day with its accompanying times of stress, we too must seek the evidences of Christ in our lives so that the grace of God may shine through us.
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