“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)

Last week I found myself juggling a busy work schedule, feeling overwhelmed about some friendships, battling loneliness, and trying to prepare for an upcoming car bill that would drain my bank account. I couldn't sleep from tossing and turning, staring at the ceiling fan, thinking of all I had to do …

Some weeks are just exhausting.

I’m sure you’ve felt this way too. Maybe you’re having a week right now where you can’t stop worrying or feeling behind and overwhelmed.

It’s our human reaction to jump to conclusions and find ourselves stressed when our to-do list is long, when school or our job wears us out, and when we feel lonely.

My worry was causing me to think of the worst-case scenario, and it was stealing my time. While I was obsessing over everything I thought I had to do, I forgot what Jesus has done and the peace that’s available to me if I seek His presence. If you’re finding yourself overwhelmed today, here are three things to remember:

1. Our future selves likely won’t remember that one harsh email or difficult test. Our future selves probably won’t remember the conflict with a co-worker or the moment we felt left out by a friend. But our future selves will be proud we woke up each day expectant of God’s goodness.

Instead of expecting the worst, stay expectant that God will fulfill His promises to you. Sometimes you’ll see His goodness in a promotion at work or a B in a class where you thought you’d get a C. But sometimes you’ll see His goodness in sunshine on a walk, a phone call with an old friend, or even a late-night ice cream run. Don’t forget that the little things are just as important as the big things because they are from your big God.

2. Chances are you’re overwhelmed because life isn’t going as expected. You made your plans, but life wrecked those plans, and you’re reminded that you aren’t in control. Life isn’t always what you plan it to be, and you might be walking through something very hard — but right now, in some area of your life, you’re also in the middle of a blessing. Despite your hard circumstances, you can have the courage to look for the blessing you’re standing in. No matter what else happens, if you've placed your faith in Jesus, every day you are lovingly “being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory” (2 Corinthians 3:18, NIV).

3. Second Timothy 1:7 says, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” In our overwhelming weeks when we need strength, let’s ask God for His power. We can’t have true empowerment if we don’t know who actually holds the power. May we pray for the Spirit of God to lead us. God’s Spirit won’t make our problems and weekly duties just go away with a "bibbidi-bobbidi-boo" like a fairy godmother … We may still have a crazy, stressful week. But with the Spirit of God, we get the power we need to:

• Have self-discipline to work hard in His name.

• Follow through with our God-given responsibilities.

• Love the people God has placed in our lives.

• See the love God has for us that reminds us we’re valued by Him.

This week may be a lot, but our God has a lot of love for us and can help both you and me walk with confidence. Let’s not worry about tomorrow. Instead, may we find God in our tomorrows.

Dear God, I release my stress and worry to You. Help me feel Your presence during my busy weeks. Remind me that You grant me a Spirit of power, love and self-discipline. I thank You for the ways You provide for me. Remind me not to feel overwhelmed but instead to remember You — the God over it all. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

OUR FAVORITE THINGS

To the woman who feels like she’s defenseless against the enemy … we see you. That’s why we want to share this episode of the Encouragement for Today Podcast with you. You’ll hear a devotion from Lysa TerKeurst based on 1 Peter 5:8 that will show you how God’s promises are a perfect match for your problems. Click here to listen now!

Grace Valentine’s devotional book, To the Girl Looking for More, is perfect for you or a young woman in your life. Encourage someone you know to walk with Jesus by gifting them this easy-to-follow, 90-day devotional that meets young women right where they’re at and points them to Scripture. You can purchase your copy here!

ENGAGE

For more encouragement from Grace Valentine, follow her on Instagram @thegracevalentine. Her website is www.gracevalentine.org.

FOR DEEPER STUDY

Matthew 6:34, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (NIV).

What is causing you to feel overwhelmed this week? What can you do today to remember God’s goodness and seek His power in your weakness? Share with us in the comments!

© 2023 by Grace Valentine. All rights reserved.