While the holidays are quickly approaching, many things may be different than the year before. Due to our current conditions, we could find ourselves in an emotional state at times if we aren’t careful. We may find ourselves reflecting on someone we may have spent the previous holidays with, yet they aren’t with us this year. Someone may suffer a decline in their finances due to the loss of a loved one or spouse; or simply because they no longer have a job. Social distancing plays a vital role in the prevention of large gatherings at Christmas time. Someone may not have enough food on their tables to provide for their families, while purchasing gifts for everyone may be a thing of the past. What about those who dread the holiday season due to just plain loneliness? Besides, what do the lonely do at Christmas?
Sometimes it may seem that we simply avert one crisis only to face another. Life may seem like that circle that goes round and round again. Every time you get a situation wrapped up, another one unravels. In moments like these, our hearts tend to yearn for a world that is less broken and less full of trouble and tension. But whoever you are, where ever you may be; though the Bible warns us that a man born of a woman and for a few days is full of trouble, just know that the world that Jesus promised us will come. In John 16:33, Jesus spoke to his Disciples about trouble such as persecution for our faith. But such trouble that He spoke about will never have the last word for those whose hopes are in Him.
So whatever you may be going through, just remember though troubles small or large may “dog” our days, Jesus promised a better tomorrow with Him. He encourages us not to let our troubles define our lives today. No matter where you find yourself, whether lonely, sad, depressed, or distressed, I encourage you to pick your Bible and read a scripture(s) and focus deeply on the Lord and the things He endured and the promises He made to us. In John 14:27, Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives, let not your heart be troubled and do not be afraid.”
The key is to try and maintain peace in the midst of your storm, for trouble does not last always. May the good Lord bring love, peace, and perseverance to you and your family during this holiday season and the years to come. Happy Holidays.
The Traveler Weekly 