am so stressed out; where can I get help? How can I manage my stress? These are questions that many of us have dealt with or are currently laboring through.

The best book I’ve found on the subject is “Stress Less,” by Don Colbert, MD, (Siloam, 2008). Not only is Colbert a medical doctor, but he is also a Christian and uses biblical principles along with medical wisdom in his advice. I don’t believe you could have a question about stress that is not covered in this book. He’s well qualified, and the first chapter is titled, “I Am a Physician Who HAS Healed Myself.”

Dr. Colbert discusses where stress comes from and differentiates between good and bad stress. He also explains how we are preprogrammed from childhood with mental and emotional habits. You may find that some of your thought patterns are distorted, which leads to stress.

Frustration is a big stress factor, and we need to find ways to deal with it. Another factor is how we perceive those who offend us and how we react to the offense.

Then there is the problem of worry – often about things that don’t happen. Colbert points out Jesus’s instruction in Matthew 6:31-34, “… do not worry about tomorrow ….” Would you like to solve this problem? Read the chapter “Wiping Out Worry.”

The book presents examples of people whom he helped to learn how to stress less. He also relates how people in the Bible – such as Job – dealt with stress. Wouldn’t you like to know Paul’s secret? Colbert explains biblical principles regarding stress such as Paul’s words in Philippians 4:11-13 – “… I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation ….”

The last part of the book deals more with physical rather than mental stressors. Proper sleep is essential. Proper diet is just as important. One chapter deals with the nutrients that impact stress. The kinds of exercises that best relieve stress is an essential part of the program, along with learning the art of relaxing – which seems to never be a part of the stressed life.

If you are stressed out and want to know how to manage the problem, this book is for you. “Stress Less” is the title – but also a way of life. With less stress, we will live longer and be better able to enjoy life to its fullest.