Blessed or Stressed

This morning CNN Money’s web site had an article titled, “Stressful Jobs That Pay Badly.” To my surprise, one of the professions listed among “the most overworked and underpaid” is Music Ministry Director. Journalist Jessica Dickler wrote, “You may not think of people who plan, direct and conduct performances for religious services as being under a particularly high amount of stress. But they also choose the appropriate psalm or hymn for every wedding and funeral -- only some of the most important events in a family's life. And those stressful situations can create some demanding clients.”

Jessica quoted one Lutheren music director who said, "A couple of years ago I got a request to play the Beer Barrel Polka at a funeral. You have to ask yourself, is this appropriate for a worship service?" I have to ask this Lutheran music director, “Who are you aiming to please?” If it’s man, then stress is inevitable. Proverbs 29:25 says, “The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe." Certainly every Christian worker should seek to be a blessing to others. But to paraphrase what a former DJ manager once told me, “No matter what you do, you tick somebody off.” You can't please all the people all the time!

When you are working as unto the Lord, then there shouldn’t be any stress. God will give you the grace and anointing to handle any challenging assignment or situation that may come your way. So don't worry what others might think of your work. Be blessed and not stressed!

“For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.” - 1 John 5:3

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