Overcoming Stress: When running your business becomes too much, go for a walk in the woods and consider what the trees have to say.
Psalm 96:12
Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy;
Isaiah 55:12
You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.
If you have ever been in the woods when a strong breeze sweeps through, you know what it is like to see the branches wave back and forth as if the trees are clapping their hands. The rustle of the leaves may seem like a symphony of trees declaring a praise song to their Creator. These passages clearly present imagery of the natural order praising God. Although trees do not sing out with an audible voice, these majestic trees cause us to look up and ponder the greatness of God.
Even though you live and work among trees, have you stopped to consider that each tree serves as a reminder of God’s creative power? Not only did God make all living things, he designed them to reproduce and create more life. God established the natural order to remind us of the spiritual reality that preceded all physical things. We are designed to be creative, multiply and inhabit the earth. A central part of this mission is to establish justice and tend the planet well. Most people who earn their living from wood products are committed to stewardship because their livelihood depends on natural resources. Do you live up to this mission? Do you recognize God’s provision in the natural order? Creation points us to the awesomeness of the Creator – no matter what challenges we face.
With all the everyday stress of running your business, you may feel overwhelmed and tired. I am learning that sometimes the most productive thing you can do is take a day off. Go for a hike, go skiing, walk in the woods, just get away from everything and get outdoors. Unplug from your electronic world and simply enjoy God’s creation. When I am overwhelmed, I head to the forest or to the mountains, and the journey helps me get a sense of perspective.
Everything that has consumed us is not as important as we think it is. And that problem that keeps you up at nights, God is bigger than that concern. Consider what the trees already seem to know, the answers come from above not worrying below. Take some time today to look around at the natural resources that you encounter on a daily basis and thank God for his blessing and provision.
Prayer
Creator God, thank you for making the mighty redwoods and blanketing the countryside with oaks, maples and other hardwoods. I am blessed to earn a living from the land, and I recognize that you have given it to me to steward in a manner that honors you.
May I see your splendor and grand design in the forests and the splendid beauty of the natural order. Thankful for all your many blessings, may I never forget you in the daily grind of work, family and life. Amen!
Editor’s Note: Tree of Life is a column that runs in the Pallet Enterprise that includes a Scripture verse and a thought for the day that can help Christian business people run their lives and companies according to Biblical principles. Submissions are welcome. Please submit your idea to chaille@ireporting.com
