The simple phrase “just say no” can have such deep meaning and change your stress level dramatically. It seems so easy to say, but yet it’s hardly ever used when it’s highly called for. I know it’s a huge struggle for us personally. We want to be everywhere at all the family gatherings, kids sports, kids camps, volunteering at church, going out with friends, helping the PTA but at what cost to our sanity? Does it really put our family first if we are so stressed out about or during the activity that we can’t even enjoy it?
Read these wise words from one of my favorite authors, Joyce Myers:
When It’s OK To Say “No”
In Numbers 11, Moses gives us an example of what we can do when we’re under stress. Talk about pressure, he was leading the Israelites through the wilderness on what should have been an eleven-day trip and instead ended up taking forty years!
The people were depressed and weeping over their situation. In verse 14, Moses tells God, “I am not able to carry all these people alone, because the burden is too heavy for me.”
Like Moses, it’s okay for us to say, “I’ve reached my limit.” Yes, scripture says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13 NKJV), but that’s really referring to times when we face various trials and situations that God will help us through.
It doesn’t mean we should take on so many responsibilities that we completely burn out, like the woman who is raising five kids, works full-time, serves on the church board, etc.
Sometimes, it’s all just too much…and it’s okay to admit that. It’s also okay to say “no” to some things so you can really enjoy life the way God intended.
Here’s a newsflash: You and I don’t have to be like everyone else or keep up with anyone else. God created some people to handle large amounts of work, but many people aren’t made this way.
Each of us needs to be who God created us to be, and we don’t have to apologize for it. We each need to individually find the balance of responsibility God has established for us to live in so we can enjoy our life, instead of making ourselves sick with an overload of stress and pressure.
When you reach your limit, go to God, just like Moses did. He will help you find a saner, healthier lifestyle.
Prayer Starter: God, sometimes it’s hard for me to slow down and say no to more responsibility. Help me to live with the balance of responsibility You created for me, so I can live with Your peace and enjoy life.