One day, while drinking coffee with the guys at the café, one of our friends was late. When he finally arrived, we asked him what happened. He said there was a tree across the road and he had to take a different route. He mentioned it was odd because the tree looked healthy, and there had been no wind. That made me think.

I see many people who seem healthy but are constantly burdened by life's problems. After rain softens the ground and adds extra weight to the leaves, it can create just the right pressure to bring down a tree, especially if it is leaning. When we let life's problems soften our foundation and we try to carry the weight alone, it can cause us to fall. Be deeply rooted in the Word, focus not on your problems but on Jesus, who is always our solution. Don't let the weight of the world rest on your shoulders because you cannot carry it alone. Trust in the Lord, give Him your problems, and stand strong against whatever the enemy throws at you. The joy of the Lord is your strength, and with God’s strength, you can stand tall through any storm life brings.

Proverbs 12:25 Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.

1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God.

Ephesians 6:13 Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.