In my previous workplace, I often found myself sitting at my desk staring into space. I felt paralyzed by my emotions—fear, anxiety, even loneliness—as I worked through a to-do list so long not even five clones of me could complete it on time. I need to fix that webpage. I need to design that catalog. I need to write that newsletter article. I need to meet with that client...I don’t get paid enough for this.

With my boss’s unattainable expectations and my own perfectionist ways always at the front of my mind, I felt helpless. I raced through every task just to get it done—producing work I wasn't proud of and feeling underappreciated each step of the way. Sometimes, I barely had time to breathe. As I powered through the day (and my lunch hour), I desperately worked to knock items off my to-do list before another project was placed on my desk. I loved my work. I loved what I was doing and I loved the company I was doing it for. But I constantly felt stressed and unhealthy.

I knew God was somehow working this stressful time into his master plan, but I was frustrated. God, why am I in this job? Why do I feel so out of control? What do I do next?

You may be in a similar situation in your workplace, desperately trying to chisel away at your pile of tasks, all while feeling underappreciated by your peers. Or maybe you’re a stay-at-home parent, always wishing for another pair of arms to help manage the craziness. Or maybe you’re just bogged down by life in general—so much to do, so little time.

If you’re struggling with an unmanageable workload—at work, at home or anywhere—turn to Scripture for comfort. During these overwhelming periods in my previous workplace, I used Scripture to create this three-step plan for seeking God’s peace and guidance:

1. Take a breath and ask God for peace.
   You, Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you.– Isaiah 26:3 (GNTD)
2. Take a step back and look at the big picture—God is working in your life.
   And so I am sure that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it on until it is finished on the Day of Christ Jesus. – Philippians 1:6 (GNTD)
3. Pray for God’s guidance and trust in his perfect ways.
   My friends, consider yourselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come your way, for you know that when your faith succeeds in facing such trials, the result is the ability to endure.– James 1:2-4 (GNTD)

Pray this prayer with me now:
God, provide me with your incredible peace when I feel overwhelmed. Constantly remind me through your Word and through those around me that you are putting together your perfect plan for my life. Please help me in the days to come. Let me always turn to you for wisdom, guidance and confidence. Let everything I do bring you glory. Amen.