We struggle as we juggle the demands of our typical schedules plus the added demands of Christmas preparations such as decorating, shopping, sending cards, wrapping gifts or baking cookies. Although it’s impossible to eliminate stress, these four suggestions will add more peace and joy to your holidays.
- Accept your limits.
Be realistic. Research shows the majority of us are really only productive for about four hours a day. Surprised? I was. Choose which holiday traditions are most significant to you, and then have the courage to adjust your schedule accordingly. Say no to everything else.
- Take time for rest.
Vance Havner said, “The Bible has as much to say about resting as about working. Our Lord would have us to come apart and rest awhile, for if we don’t we will just come apart!” Adequate sleep and times of quiet do wonders in reducing our stress.
- Remember what matters most.
We may desire fresh greens with scented candles, an array of homemade holiday desserts, and beautifully wrapped gifts under the tree, but special times with family and friends are the memories that will be cherished. It’s all about relationships.
- Refocus on Jesus.
When my son Kyle was about 10 years old, he said, “Mom, the devil really has to work harder at Christmas, doesn’t he?”
I was absorbed in wrapping the last of the Christmas gifts, and I didn’t understand what he meant.
“I mean,” he said, “with more stories and songs about Jesus this time of year, if you didn’t believe in him, wouldn’t you at least think about him?”
I stopped working and smiled. His comment helped me refocus on the greatest present of all, the precious gift of Jesus.
If the cares of Christmas are distracting you, remember to be grateful for the gift you have already. Refocus on Jesus. Remember what matters most. Take time for rest and accept your limits. When you do, you will feel less stressed and more blessed!
