During the holiday season, many battle an unexpected case of the “holiday blahs.” The days are shorter, the sunlight is fleeting, and schedules are out of rhythm with gatherings, travel, and expectations piling up. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, tired, or even melancholy during what is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. But the good news is that we can overcome the holiday blahs by anchoring ourselves in biblical truths. Let’s use CHRISTMAS to remind ourselves to recenter and embrace the joy God intends.
C – Cast Your Cares on the Lord
“Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.” (Psalm 55:22)
Remember to bring your cares and burdens to the Lord when the season's weight feels too much to bear. Let Him sustain you, and trust that He will carry you through the busyness, loneliness, and stress this time of year might bring.
H – Hold Fast to Gratitude
“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Gratitude shifts our perspective. When you feel the blahs creeping in, thank God for His blessings—big and small. A grateful heart will brighten even the darkest winter days.
R – Rest in God’s Presence
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Amidst the hustle and bustle, carve out time to rest in God’s presence. His rest is not just physical; it rejuvenates the soul and helps us regain our focus on what truly matters.
I – Invest in Others
“Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
One way to beat the holiday blahs is by shifting our focus from ourselves to others. Look for opportunities to serve, encourage, or be present for someone struggling even more than you.
S – Sing Praises to God
“Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.” (Psalm 100:2)
Music has a unique way of lifting our spirits. Sing Christmas carols, hymns, or songs of praise to remind yourself of the joy and wonder of Christ’s birth.
T – Trust God’s Timing
“He hath made every thing beautiful in his time.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
The holiday season often brings unmet expectations or delayed dreams. Trust in God’s perfect timing and remember He is working everything for your good and His glory.
M – Meditate on God’s Word
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
When the holiday blahs threaten to overshadow your joy, turn to Scripture. Let God’s Word guide you and encourage you to stay spiritually grounded.
A – Abide in Christ
“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” (John 15:4)
Staying connected to Christ and His Church is vital. Spend time in prayer, worship, and reflection to keep your relationship with Him thriving, even during the busiest season.
S – Share the Gospel
“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)
The holidays are a perfect time to share the hope and joy of the Gospel with others. Remind yourself of the Good News and spread it to those around you who may need a dose of holiday hope.
The holiday blahs don’t have to define your season. You can find renewed joy and purpose by focusing on these CHRISTMAS principles. This Christmas, let God fill your heart with the peace and joy that only He can give, even on the Blah days!
What a great encouragement, Pastor John!
Thank you so much Pastor John! This was so encouraging for me today!