According to the dictionary, stress is defined as, “physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension.”
Although stress can be seen from different approaches, in our context today, however, we are referring to the excessive or negative mental or emotional strain that many of us have to deal with from time to time, or in some cases, regularly.
Even though the word “stress” is not specifically mentioned in the scriptures, it does talk about things such as anxiety, worry, or troubles —things we can associate with stress in our own lives.
We all respond to each of these things in our own unique ways. However, the word of God is the best instrument for dealing with issues such as this.
Note: Bible quotations are from the NIV, unless otherwise indicated
Contents
- 1 What Does The Bible Say About Stress And Worry?
- 2 What Does The Bible Say About Stress KJV?
- 3 Biblical Definition Of Stress
- 4 Is Stress A Sin In The Bible?
- 5 What Does The Bible Say About Stress At Work?
- 6 What Does The Bible Say About Stress In Marriage?
- 7 What Does The Bible Say About Stressing Over Money?
- 8 What Does The Bible Say About Stress Eating?
- 9 Bible Characters Who Were Stressed
- 10 How To Handle Stress Biblically
What Does The Bible Say About Stress And Worry?
Stress and worry are associated elements, and although the Bible does not specifically mention stress, it does mention worry as well as other related elements, which we find common.
For instance, worry can put so much pressure on us that we find ourselves under physical, mental, or emotional strain. This can go on to affect our health and productivity.
Does the Bible talk about something like this?
Surely, it does.
Jesus, for example, taught us in the Beatitudes, not to fret or worry ourselves in anxiety over what we have or don’t have yet, because God is able to provide our needs for us when we trust Him.
What Does The Bible Say About Stress KJV?
Here are two verses that talk about stress (according to our context today):
Biblical Definition Of Stress
Based on what we have seen so far, biblically speaking, stress is situation in which an individual is overwhelmed by their circumstances in such a way that they become uninspired and unmotivated, losing their joy and peace in the process.
Whatever dampens a man’s spirit is a stress according to the Bible.
Is Stress A Sin In The Bible?
Stress is not a sin in the Bible. However, it can have a sinful effect such as fear, unbelief, doubt and more in our hearts towards God and towards life.
Nowhere in the scripture does God condemn anyone for being stressed out. Rather, God does instruct us to trust Him with our stress and worries, and not to linger in our frustrations or stress so that we do not give place to the devil in our lives and fall into sin.
What Does The Bible Say About Stress At Work?
Stress at work can come in different forms or through different means. It could come through an annoying boss, an uncooperative colleague, little pay but more work, annoying customers or clients, unhealthy work environment, etc.
Under such circumstances, productivity can be hampered, uncertainty will grow, fear, anxiety, frustrations can all come together to make you stressed out. It is also worthy of note that, work-related stress is more mental that physical.
Turning to the Lord is the best thing to do at such a time because He is the refuge for those who turn to Him. Hence, what does the Bible say about such kind of stress as we turn to the Lord:
- Meditate upon God’s word
- Express your gratitude to God for what you have
- Express your trust in God’s plans for your future
- Allow God’s love to overwhelm your heart completely and spread to others
What Does The Bible Say About Stress In Marriage?
Marital stress is very real. It is the reason behind many events that occur in a home that may look good on the outside but not alive inside.
Stress in marriage can come from finances, accumulated bitterness, unforgiveness, an uncaring partner, loneliness, and other bad behaviors from one’s partner.
However, we can turn to God, like any other situation, for help and guidance in overcoming the circumstances. Here is what the Bible says about dealing with stress in marriage:
- Put your trust in God than in your partner
- Focus on the good
- Pray
- Allow God heal your wounds
- Allow God’s love permeate your heart for your home

What Does The Bible Say About Stressing Over Money?
Many of us are stuck today in this boat today. However, God’s word already has something to say to us regarding financial stress:
- God is our source
- No need to fret over money or your lack
- Stressing over money can make us become desperate and compromise because of it
What Does The Bible Say About Stress Eating?
Stress eating or emotional eating is one of the causes of overweight or obesity. However, you can turn to God instead of food when faced with trials and temptations.
Here are a few verses about stress eating:
- Your diet or any such action is meant to bring glory to God
- Worrying is unhealthy but you can trust God with your problems
- Your body is God’s temple and should be taken care of
Bible Characters Who Were Stressed
Are there Bible characters who went through stress, hard times, and situations that threatened their faith and literal survival?
Yes, there are. Find below some Bible Characters who were stressed in one way or another:
- Jesus
- Peter
- Moses
- Job
- David
How To Handle Stress Biblically
In addition to everything that we have seen thus far, here are sure Biblical ways to handle stress no matter what area we face them.
- Take it to God in faith through prayer
- Hand it over and take God’s rest instead
- Develop a thanksgiving attitude
- Meditate on God’s promises concerning you
- Talk about God’s goodness with others
- Look for ways to support others going through stress as well