At least this is what a psychologist tells me in our discussion about stress. I had asked him if he had strategies for handling its negative effects on the body – since this is a huge area of concern in our culture – and I am not immune to them.

Here’s what he said, as recorded in my journal, processed through my faith in Christ –

Let me leave you with an interesting thought. Perhaps we are wired with these two systems so that we can both process God’s terrifying holiness – that reaction is called fear in Scripture – and his amazing love. Those two aspects of God, one pushing sinners away and one pulling them near, is put in balance through Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for us. Just like adrenaline sharpening our senses, God’s awesome “otherness” will always be a part of our interaction with him – kept from striking us down by the parasympathetic presence of his paraclete (Spirit).

In Jesus, we are able to be in perfect balance: totally alert to how loved we are.

God, in your wisdom, you have equipped us to react to both your holiness and your mercy. We fearfully respect you. And we find complete peace in your mercy. Help us through your Spirit to have these in balance so that we can fully worship and obey you.

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