Embracing the Holiday Season: Finding Peace Amidst the Chaos

It’s that overwhelming time of year when emotions run high and stress can feel insurmountable. With family visiting, your home might be in disarray, and the to-do list seems endless. Where do you even begin?

As Ecclesiastes 3:4 reminds us, “There’s a time to cry and a time to laugh.” So go ahead and cry, just let it out! Once you’ve released those feelings, let’s shift our focus to taking action. :)

Set Your Heart and Mind on Things Above Not on Earthly Things, Colossians 3:2

What is your purpose during the holidays? Who do you wish to impress? What do you want to achieve? Personally, my goal is to glorify God in everything I do, serving my family and creating a loving, nurturing, inviting, and comfortable atmosphere.

I want to feed my loved ones and take care of them, ensuring they feel cherished and special. Remember, the essence of the holidays isn’t solely about material gifts. There’s so much more we can offer that reflects the light of God and His love through our words and actions. Let this be your guiding principle as we navigate the holiday season.

Reflecting Peace in Your Environment, Philippians 4:7

Your surroundings should embody the peace of God. Start by decluttering; get rid of items you no longer need or use. Dispose of broken or tattered possessions that consume your time and energy to maintain. After all, time is precious—is it worth spending excessive time on things that no longer serve you?

Once you’ve lightened your space, clean it thoroughly. Use fragrant soaps, wipes, and scented candles, to uplift your environment.

Plan Ahead for Gatherings, Proverbs 31:15, 20

Make a list of everything you’ll need for your Thanksgiving get-togethers. If you’re cooking, compile a grocery list and consider what tools and dinnerware you’ll need to set the table. This is also an excellent opportunity to declutter your dining area—wipe it down and prepare it for guests.

Shop for necessary items ahead of time to avoid last-minute panic when stores sell out of essentials like cranberry sauce, gravy, and stuffing. Stock up on drinks and snacks in advance to ensure you’re well-prepared.

Connecting with Loved Ones, Hebrews 3:13

For those celebrating Christmas, start compiling a list of people you’ll be connecting with. Prepare holiday cards or prayer cards to send out, filled with meaningful words of encouragement, appreciation, and hopes for the season. Let them know how much they mean to you—a heartfelt letter or card can become a treasured memory.

If you choose to give gifts, don’t wait until the last minute. Create a list of items you know they will appreciate. Remember, experiences often outweigh material possessions. Consider giving gift cards or planning outings, such as a show, a dining experience, or a spa treatment.

Decorating with Intention, Proverbs 31: 17, 21-22

For those who love to decorate, take inventory of your decorations to avoid buying duplicates. It’s easy to forget what you have hidden away in closets. Now is a perfect time to sort through your decorations and prepare for the changing seasons.

Finding Peace in Prayer, Philippians 4:6

In times of stress, remember to not be anxious about anything. Instead, bring everything to God through prayer and petition. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, pause, pray, and ask Him for the peace that surpasses all understanding. Let’s commit to walking with Him through the entire winter season. Amen.

Written by, Sangita Evans