Tis The Season: Navigating The Holiday Blues

The holidays are a time of joy, celebration, and reflection, but as life evolves, so do our experiences of the season. Loved ones pass on, children grow up, and the familiar traditions that once brought us comfort may shift or fade away. Even as believers who know that Jesus is the reason for the season, the human side of us can still feel the sting of change and loss. While gratitude remains in our hearts, it doesn’t always erase the pain we feel.

The good news is that God understands. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” It’s okay to grieve what has changed, but it’s also important to lean into His presence and the new things He is doing, even when they feel uncertain or unfamiliar.

Three Solutions for Finding Peace in Changing Seasons

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings in God’s Presence

Instead of pushing your emotions aside, bring them to God in prayer. He cares deeply about your sadness, your longing, and your uncertainties. Journaling or speaking aloud your feelings in prayer can help release the heaviness and make room for His comfort.

2. Create New Traditions

While you may miss old routines, consider starting new traditions that honor the past but embrace the present. Whether it’s volunteering, gathering with a different group of friends, or taking time for quiet reflection, new practices can bring meaning to the holidays in unexpected ways.

3. Focus on Eternity and His Promises

The holidays point us to the eternal hope we have in Christ. Shift your focus from earthly losses to the everlasting joy promised in Him. Revelations 21:4 says, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Let this promise sustain you.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being Emmanuel, God with us, especially in seasons of change. I trust Your word and Your promises, but my human heart feels the loss and transition deeply. Please comfort me and remind me of Your presence in every moment. Help me to find joy in what remains and courage to embrace the new. Lord, let Your peace fill my heart as I navigate the holidays, and help me to see Your hand at work in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Watch Your Mouth, Mind Your Words

Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. —Ephesians 4:29

“Sometimes it’s not what you say but how you say it.” Be mindful of how you speak to others. The old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” couldn’t be further from the truth. Words can pierce, cut, and break just as badly as any physical blow and sometimes, they take even longer to heal.

If you’ve been on the receiving end of harsh words, it’s easy to hold onto the pain they caused. However, don’t let those words take root in bitterness. Instead, take a step of faith and express your feelings honestly and calmly to the other person.

For those who find themselves speaking harshly, it’s vital to reflect. If you don’t recognize the pain your words cause, it’s time to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the impact of your speech. A lack of remorse for hurtful words indicates a deeper heart issue that needs God’s healing touch.

Mindful Moment of Reflection

Sometimes its not what you say, but how. When was the last time you acknowledged how your words deeply impacted someone—positively or negatively? How can you be more intentional with your speech today?

Prayer

Lord, help me to use my words wisely and with love. Teach me to speak in a way that uplifts and heals, not tears down. If I have hurt others with my words, convict my heart and guide me to seek forgiveness. For those who’ve been wounded by harsh words, bring healing and restoration. May my speech always reflect Your grace.

Amen.