5 Ways to Avoid the Holiday "Blahs"

Many people feel lonely and sad during the holidays. The reasons vary.

They may be struggling financially or feeling stressed with holiday responsibilities.(1) They could be missing family members who've passed away or they may be dealing with critical family members who've cut them off.(2) 

Some people long for the magical Christmases they experienced as a child without adult responsibilities, and others can't let go of sad childhood memories.(3) 

Whatever the reasons, we would be wise to consider these ways to make Christmas less difficult:

1. Be self-controlled (Galatians 5:22-23).
Don't overspend or over-commit.

 
2. Lower our expectations and be thankful for what we have (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

3. Give of ourselves to others who are less fortunate (1 John 3:18).

4. Focus on good things in our lives (Philippians 4:8).

5. Focus on the real meaning of the holiday (Luke 2:10-11).

These are good principles to follow even if we don't have the holiday blahs.
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Some of the points in this devotion are adapted from the article "Why People Get Depressed at Christmas" by Ray Williams (no longer available online)

(1) See How the Flu Changed My Perspective on Christmas.

(2) See Boundaries: Is Your Family Dysfunctional? and When Holidays Bring Sadness.

(3) See Let's Be Grown-Ups at Christmas.

I encourage you to check out the Wisdom for Life Devotional. It contains 100 one-minute devotions to challenge, encourage, instruct, and inspire your love for God's Word. 

If you'd like to know why Wisdom for Life might be a good gift for you or your loved ones, see 10 Reasons Why You'll Love Wisdom for Life. 

 

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