The Christmas holiday season is finally here which means it is time to “deck the halls, bring out the Christmas cookies and embrace all things merry and bright.” Christmas is a special time of the year to celebrate with family and friends. It is an opportunity to show kindness and love and for giving to those who might not have the necessities of life to sustain themselves.
But let’s not forget that Christmas is a religious day of celebration and remembrance. The biblical Psalmist wrote, “I sought the Lord and He heard me and delivered me from all my fears.” Let’s remember to seek the Lord for true joy and happiness.
Christmas to some can be a time of seeking or renewing one’s relationship with the Lord. Having a relationship with God can help in times of anxiety and complexities in life. So, having the right relationships will help you to soar in life. It is like the wind beneath your wings. However, the wrong relationships will drag you down.
During this Christmas season allow me to encourage you to know which relationships are good for you and which are not. For example, when a relationship is not working, acknowledge it. Sometimes you must cut your losses. There is an old saying “when you are in a hole, stop digging.” In other words, accept the fact that sometimes your efforts are not enough and that you cannot help everyone.
Gift giving and card sharing is an exciting thing to do. But remember, don’t give more than your means. If you do, it will come back to plague you in the near future. What you give to others must be appropriate and from the heart. Try considering giving less to family and more to charitable organizations.
Remember that not everyone will be pleased with what you give them. A fact of life is this: some people are never satisfied. In fact, your constant help to someone may actually be a hindrance because you have become a crutch and an enabler. Step back and let them learn to do for themselves.
So, as Christmas approaches, remember to pray for guidance and direction. Prayer can mitigate any anxiety you might have for giving. After you have done your best, I can assure you that God will do the rest. And Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Chaplain Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
