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The holidays are fast approaching and we all have a choice to make. Will we endure a stress-filled, busy, I-can’t-wait-until-its-over season or will we enjoy the holidays in a way that God meant for us to? He didn’t plan all the feasts and days of celebration in the Old Testament without reason. Celebrations allow us to remember God and His goodness and draw near to Him. Good, clean, enjoyable activities during the holidays will pave the way for a wonderful New Year. 

    Try these six simple steps:

  • Plan ahead. Don’t get swept up in the craziness that exists during the holidays. Decide how much time you will spend shopping and cooking, and which activities you will and won’t attend. You don’t have to do everything.
  • Keep it simple. It won’t help to cut back on the number of events if your everyday life is complicated and stressful. For example, during the holidays, I fix simple meals or pick up pizza and keep my cleaning to a minimum.
  • Don’t forget prayer. The most important thing you can do is to talk with God about everything going on. He will lead you by that “check” in your spirit when you’re overdoing. Remember, we have not because we ask not.
  • Be thankful. An attitude of gratitude can knock the grumbling, whiny spirit of Scrooge out before it can take hold. Look at the ways God has blessed you. Be thankful for the people in your life and use this season to tell them.
  • Praise! Praise! Praise. I listen to Christmas music to remind me of the “reason for the season” as I sing along. Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised! (Psalm 145)
  • Help someone else. Last but not least, choose to help someone. Buy a needy child a present, volunteer at a soup kitchen or food bank, or get involved with a church outreach. Better yet, make it a yearly family event to give and share. It could turn out to be your fondest holiday memory!

     It’s our own choice whether we enjoy or stress during the holidays. Let’s learn to delight during Christmas time and lead by example for our family and friends.