Holy Days or "Holi-daze": 3 Essential Tips for a Peaceful Holiday Season.

If you're like me, peace during the holidays can seem like an illusion. With all of the parties and preparations, on top of the demands of regular life, it can be hard to stay present with the Lord and those we love! Don't despair, with God all things are possible! Read on for help tapping into the Peace that passes all understanding.

Tip 1: Practice Letting Go

I'll be honest, this is the hardest one for me, which is why I put it at the top. As a recovering perfectionist, I have a hard time letting go of my picture perfect plans in order to deal with the reality that life presents. As Christians, it is important to align our priorities with the Lord's. Which means that things don't need to be or look perfect, because He only cares about the heart: the center of our thoughts and emotions. Ask yourself, "How are my thoughts and emotions responding to the activity I am pursuing?" and, "What are my actions causing in the hearts of those around me?"

Not every thing needs to get done, and not everything needs to be done well.

We are finite, limited humans after all. God remembers that we are dust (Psalm 103:14); it behooves us to do the same. If your efforts to make certain things happen are taking you away from being present and loving to those around you, ask the Lord to help you set priorities and show you what you can let go of. Then give youreslf some grace, and do it.

The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. —1 Samuel 16:7

Tip 2:  Practice Saying, "No"

As much as I love a good party and spending time with my loved ones, I can't possibly attend every event that wants to get onto my calendar. Do I want to do all the fun things that are available this time of year? Absolutely! Is it physically possible for me to do so? Not at all. Not, that is to say, if I want to stay sane and actually have time to sleep. Its is important to take care of ourselves in order to be present to these holy moments and each other.

Sometimes we are relucant to say, "no," because we don't want to disappoint people or let them down, or we worry about what other's will think. None of which is healthy or helpful, or Christ-like for that matter. Our God is full of Grace and Love, which extends to everyone, including you. Ask yourself: Is this activity life giving? What is my motivation? Is God asking this of me (as an act of love), or am I being guilted into doing it (by myself or someone else)? What am I afraid of, or worried will happen, if I say, "no"?

Ask the Lord to search your heart, direct your steps, and give you the courage to say, "no, thank you."

Of course, we want to be as kind as possible when refusing an invitation or request. You may say something like, "I'm so sorry, I would really like to say, 'yes,' but I just can't fit that in right now. Is there another time we could get together, or something else I can do to help instead?" Being limited is a part of the human condition. Those in crisis and dealing with illness are especially aware of this. It is important to respect our limitations and set boundaries for ourselves. Saying, "no," allows us to be more present and peaceful when we choose to say, yes."

Tip 3: Practice Regular Resets

Thought this step is listed last, it's actually the most important! Whenever you feel tension or anxiety rising, give yourself permission to take a 30-60 second break: close your eyes, place your hands over the center of your chest and take three slow, deep breaths. Then, with your eyes still closed, pray these three words, "Help please, Jesus." Finally, take a few more seconds to wait for His response. Prayer is meant to be a two-way process. We need to give God an opportunity to participate. Whether it's a calming sense of His presence, or a word of guidance, He is the only one who can bring true peace to this full and sometimes complicated season.

In returning and rest is your salvation. In quietness and trust is your strength. —Isaiah 30:15

A Peaceful Holiday

Lots of hustle and bustle makes it challenging to be peaceful and present. It is hard to show love and speak life when we’re frantic and tense. By choosiing to let go of perfection, set some boundaries, and practice regular resets, we can all get a little closer to experiencing the joy of connection and celebration that make these days so special.

May our holidays be Holy Days, spent in the presence of the Lord and one another. And may we also take the time to be present with ourselves, allowing ourselves to embrace all of the complicated feelings that often arise at this time of year. Heavenly Father, help us to know that You see and love us. You have all that we need for life and godliness, during this season and always. Enfold us in Your Peace. Amen.

Resources

If you want to learn more about hearing from God and walking in Peace, feel free to contact me, or schedule a free phone consult. I look forward to connecting with you.

Click EFT Tapping for Stress and Overwhelm for an example of mind-body work to increase peace and calm.