The Christmas season has always been my favorite time of the year. From the Christmas décor, music, gatherings, and the overall giving spirit most people tend to have. As I get older, I notice every holiday season has become a little different from the year before. Living away from family requires me to be more intentional about how I spend holidays. Which I'm okay with because being intentional is what helps me keep my joy throughout the season. I have to be intentional about how I spend my time, who I spend it with, what I focus my mind on, and staying connected to God.
The holiday season can bring a lot of joy to some people. On the other hand, it can also bring depression, stress, anxiety, or anything else unwanted to others. So I intentionally make sure I fill myself up even more spiritually so that these things don’t creep in. God wants us to have joy all year round, not just during the holidays. He makes it available to us every day. In John 15:11 it says, “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.”
Although he gives us joy, sometimes we have to be intentional in receiving it. Joy comes from within. Your circumstance may not bring joy, but you can bring joy to your circumstance.
This year has been a tough one and the holidays may look a lot different for you. However, I encourage you to bring out your joy. Fill yourself up with God, push out the negative, and do things your heart desires. Intentionally,
Focus on the positive things.
Love on the people around you (Safely of course).
Let go of holiday expectations and wanting things to be perfect.
Do something you enjoy: holiday movie nights, game nights, make your favorite meal/dessert, spend time with family/friends, go see Christmas lights, unplug and have self-care days, or make time to do that hobby that you enjoy.
Do something for others. It doesn’t have to cost. Send an encouraging message to someone. You never know who you may uplift. When I do this, I always see it come back to me.
Live in the moment. Take in all the good you can each day. Don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.
Don’t let the stresses of the holiday season take away your joy. Be intentional every day and create new traditions. Some days may be easier than others but remember joy is available to you every day.
And for the singles, remember you are not alone. Don’t let the holiday season make you feel lonely. Enjoy your freedom and try new things. This is definitely the time to treat yourself a little more than usual.
Happy Holidays!
You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in your presence
Acts 2:28
❤️