You may be one of many who will view the classic film “White Christmas” during the holiday season. One of my favorite songs lilting through it begins, “When I am worried and I can’t sleep, I count my blessings instead of sheep. . .” The words then walk us down memory lane creating a collage of the blessings of life. If a secular song challenges its viewers to realign their thinking, how much more should believers be stimulated to “bless the Lord and forget none of His benefits. . .” (Psalm 103)? Yet statistics suggest that the holiday season is generous with stress and skimpy with blessings.
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CHOOSING TO WRAP YOUR HOLIDAYS IN PRAYER
The holidays are rapidly approaching, and for many it ushers in a season of blessings garnished with stress. The holidays can be a hectic time, where shopping, gift wrapping, cooking, and party planning are added to already impacted schedules. The stress level increases when we choose to meditate upon where the time and resources will come from to fulfill everyone’s holiday expectations. This increase in stress that often detracts from the reason and joy of the holiday celebrations.
Read MorePLEASE BE MY GUEST—OCTOBER’S HINTS FOR THE EVERYDAY HOMEMAKER
If you were asked to define biblical hospitality how would you choose to describe it? The topic and the definition should be dear to our hearts as believers for as we practice hospitality we share what we have with those whom God brings into our lives. Biblical hospitality is focused on having a heart for service, asking our heavenly Father to creatively stretch what we have to offer refreshment to others, as well as using our time and energy to add joy to our daily lives.
Read MoreKEEPING THE HOLY IN HOLIDAYS—SEPTEMBER’S HINTS FOR THE EVERYDAY HOMEMAKER
What is your reaction when you think of the holiday season? Did you know that the holiday season is actually a “holy-season” that should bring us closer to the event or person we are celebrating? Contrary to current practice, Thanksgiving Day is rooted in an occasion focused on thanking God for His provision rather than parades, football games, and shopping at odd hours. Our study of American history reminds us that the Pilgrims had experienced an incredibly difficult year, yet they chose to be thankful. Christmas is the birthday of our Savior who was born in the humblest of circumstances and gave the best gift ever—salvation. So, what are some ways that you can make this holiday season one that is “holy”? Let’s begin with an assessment of our Holiday IQ.
Read MoreCHOICES THAT PREPARE OUR HEARTS FOR A FANTASTIC HOLIDAY SEASON
I love summer so it is a bit challenging to me to walk through the craft, card, fabric, and department stores and find holiday supplies displayed. However, I also know that good stewardship challenges me to plan ahead so that my holiday season is truly focused on the event it is meant to celebrate rather stressed-filled because I made poor choices in late summer and early fall. Just as my management skills propel me to plan ahead so I experience a fantastic rather than a frantic holiday season, so I must begin early to make spiritual choices so that I maximize the potentially rich experiences.
Read MoreSAVOR THE SEASON OF LOVE BY CHOOSING TO DETONATE DISCOURAGEMENT
February ushers in the commencement of the holiday season focused on expressing love. Billed as the “season of love” the days spanning February 1 to February 14 can be delightful or disappointing.Statistics suggest that when disappointment settles in Satan’s fiery dart of discouragement embeds itself in our hearts.Choosing to detonate discouragement during the “season for love” poises us for a Christ-centered celebration!
Read MoreGUESS WHO IS COMING TO DINNER!
As the days shorten and calendar pages are turned thoughts of holiday celebrations begin to occupy our minds. Amidst your planning may I pose a question—who will comprise your holiday guest list this year?
Before you respond, consider these thoughts:
Holidays can be painful times for those without extended family in the immediate area.
It was October of my eighteenth year of life when my Dad stepped into eternity. As a college freshman I not only had to deal with my own grief, I also was faced with the responsibility of helping my mother adjust to a new lifestyle.
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