Don't take on too much!

"For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,  5casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ". 

                                                                 2 Corinthians 10:4-5    NKJV

We must be aware of the risk of taking on too much, whether work or play. We need to be in control of it and, not the other way around. If we don't, we open ourselves up to stress and the many things that this displays. Take a look below:

TRIGGER REACTIONS

STRESS----------------anger explosive anger because of being overwhelmed

      ''    ''        ----------------retaliation desire to get even/revenge

    ''    ''        ----------------bad mouthing destructive, threatening words see Eph 4:29

      ''    ''        ----------------threatening harsh words in interactions with others

      ''    ''        ----------------bitterness allowing things to linger/record of wrongs

All of the above can lead to a bad example of Christianity, bad attitudes can stir up conflict, damage testimony and the ability to serve Jesus. Tony Evans says 'Satan's strategy is to block the knowledge and/or application of God's Word in the thinking believers, so that they can be held hostage by his lies.' 

Again Joyce Meyer comments: 'We can continue to fuel our angry emotions with our wrong thoughts, or we can take a stand and, with God's help, refuse to allow the situation to get out of control'.

So let's take a look at this. Stress can attack at any time but, it usually kicks in big time when we have taken on too much work. Each of us need to keep a firm hold on what is expected of us. If it's work, the extra money can be tempting but, not if it is going to have a detrimental effect on our health. There is only so much that any human being can do in one day. To take on any extra can lead to tiredness and eventually to stress. Picture this scene, you take on extra things to do and then, someone else - maybe your spouse/family member/friend, reminds you that you promised to do something for them this weekend. This can cause disappointment for letting someone down. As time goes on, demands on your time can get the better of you and you begin to crack and if you don't do something about this, you can so easily fly off the handle. This sudden surge of anger may help to relieve you of pent up energy but, it does nothing positive for the people who are listening and you are letting down.

Look at the chart above and you can begin to see where you may be going wrong. The answer is, don't take on too much! Learn to prioritise and to say 'No' to people who may want you to do something for them but, it is not on your schedule. Your priorities are God first, and then yourself and your family if you have one. Jesus told us to take one day at a time (Matt 6:34). David told us told us to cast our burdens on Him (Psalm 55:22) and Paul is telling us to take control of our anger (2 Corinthians 10:5).

You know that this makes sense but for some of you, it is going to be difficult to say no and make some changes. However, it will be so much easier with God helping you.

Ask Him for help.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. In Jesus' Name. Amen
dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers
Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle Check it out. Just tap on Grahame Howard books.

If you would like to contact me email grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Copyright 2026 Grahame Howard.