Are you someone who goes into the holidays full of hope and good cheer? Do you struggle, like so many do, and spend this season missing lost loved ones?
What a wonderful time of the year. The leaves have changed colors and are falling in preparation for the winter season. When I step back and look at the picture, it really is a beautiful image.
Thanksgiving and Christmas are holidays that are filled with possibility. At least, that is what I believe. The wonderous time of being around loved ones that you only see during the holidays.
Family and friends get together to eat and hopefully reflect back on the good things that have happened in the past year. You might spend time watching movies, playing games and just catching up with each other.
The above sounds idyllic, doesn't it? It is a little too rosy.
I have always had a hard time getting through the holidays. First off, it is dark, dreary and cold outside. Then you throw in family that I only ever see on rare occasions and it causes a lot of stress.
I am sitting here with Thanksgiving in my rear window and Christmas is just around the corner, but do you know what I am thinking about? My mom. She passed on December 18, 2012. It makes 6 years this year that she has been gone.
I used to look forward to putting up our tree each year. Once it was up, it gave me something to focus on, something colorful and full of light. We don't put up a tree any more. I can only imagine what would end up happening if we did. Our dogs love
to run
and play
and jump
and climb
and just for fun, chew on everything.
1. Take A Step Back.
When things feel dark, allow yourself some time to just take a step back. Ask the Lord for new eyes to see His wonders.
2. Notice The Colors Around You.
As you take that step back, pay attention to all of the colors that are around you. The bright oranges and yellows of the trees that have not lost all of their leaves. The Christmas lights. Yes, enjoy the Christmas light. Take a ride in the evening and just spend time enjoying all of the colors.
3. Focus On The Good Things That Have Happened.
Spend some time reflecting over the past year. As you do, focus on the good things that happened. A birthday. An anniversary. A graduation. A trip. The birth of a child. A job promotion. A new job. When you see these moments from the past year, give thanks and praise to the Lord.
Romans 15:13 NIV
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13 NIV
Prayer
Dear Father, thank You for always being there. Even when I struggle, I know that You are there. Father, I pray that You will give me new eyes this holiday season. Wrap me in Your arms and comfort me as You fill me with the wonder that is Your presence. I pray that You will fill me with joy and peace as I trust in You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Sometimes The Answer Is Wait
Express Your Gratitude
God's Grace
Are you someone who goes into the holidays full of hope and good cheer?
Do you struggle, like so many do, and spend this season missing lost loved ones?
How can I pray for you today?
If you will allow it, I will be happy to help carry your load.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, nor do I work in the medical field. The tips that I have shared are what has worked for me in the past. It is my hope that they might help you as well.
Photo credit: suju on pixabay.com
What a wonderful time of the year. The leaves have changed colors and are falling in preparation for the winter season. When I step back and look at the picture, it really is a beautiful image.
Thanksgiving and Christmas are holidays that are filled with possibility. At least, that is what I believe. The wonderous time of being around loved ones that you only see during the holidays.
Family and friends get together to eat and hopefully reflect back on the good things that have happened in the past year. You might spend time watching movies, playing games and just catching up with each other.
The above sounds idyllic, doesn't it? It is a little too rosy.
Christmas Is Around The Corner
I have always had a hard time getting through the holidays. First off, it is dark, dreary and cold outside. Then you throw in family that I only ever see on rare occasions and it causes a lot of stress.
I am sitting here with Thanksgiving in my rear window and Christmas is just around the corner, but do you know what I am thinking about? My mom. She passed on December 18, 2012. It makes 6 years this year that she has been gone.
I used to look forward to putting up our tree each year. Once it was up, it gave me something to focus on, something colorful and full of light. We don't put up a tree any more. I can only imagine what would end up happening if we did. Our dogs love
to run
and play
and jump
and climb
and just for fun, chew on everything.
Redirect Your Thoughts
1. Take A Step Back.
When things feel dark, allow yourself some time to just take a step back. Ask the Lord for new eyes to see His wonders.
2. Notice The Colors Around You.
As you take that step back, pay attention to all of the colors that are around you. The bright oranges and yellows of the trees that have not lost all of their leaves. The Christmas lights. Yes, enjoy the Christmas light. Take a ride in the evening and just spend time enjoying all of the colors.
3. Focus On The Good Things That Have Happened.
Spend some time reflecting over the past year. As you do, focus on the good things that happened. A birthday. An anniversary. A graduation. A trip. The birth of a child. A job promotion. A new job. When you see these moments from the past year, give thanks and praise to the Lord.
Romans 15:13 NIV
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13 NIV
Prayer
Dear Father, thank You for always being there. Even when I struggle, I know that You are there. Father, I pray that You will give me new eyes this holiday season. Wrap me in Your arms and comfort me as You fill me with the wonder that is Your presence. I pray that You will fill me with joy and peace as I trust in You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Sometimes The Answer Is Wait
Express Your Gratitude
God's Grace
Are you someone who goes into the holidays full of hope and good cheer?
Do you struggle, like so many do, and spend this season missing lost loved ones?
How can I pray for you today?
If you will allow it, I will be happy to help carry your load.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, nor do I work in the medical field. The tips that I have shared are what has worked for me in the past. It is my hope that they might help you as well.
Photo credit: suju on pixabay.com
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