Then there is the flip side. For others this is the season to feel sad, lonely, stressed, frustrated, depressed, annoyed, etc.
While Christmas is a time to reflect on the greatest gift ever given - Jesus - He is not always our total focus, but He plays a major part in how we can deal with all of those feelings listed above.
He understands all that we go through and He is with us in every situation. Yet, it is at our lowest times when we seem to question where He is, and I promise you He is near to you. Psalm 34:18 (NKJV) states that "The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit." Also, in Matthew 1:23 (NKJV), Jesus is called "Immanuel", which translates "God with us." Ups and downs, highs and lows, happy or sad, He is with us.
Even now, I know people who are happy and excited over the birth of a new child, new house, engagements, promotions, and upcoming vacations. And then, others who have requested prayer for someone dying from cancer and other diseases, people undergoing health tests, about to lose their homes, lost their jobs, family members suffering from addictions, those who are feeling sadness from losing loved ones and not being able to celebrate with them anymore, and the list goes on.
Let us be mindful of what someone may be facing. Let's live out Romans 12:15 (NIV), "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn".
This is also the season of resolutions as we are saying goodbye to one year and preparing for the next. What do you resolve to do right now - lose weight, get fit (I can help you with that), stop smoking or drinking, be more generous, be more organized, have more patience (tough one, just saying, and speaking from experience), or maybe get out of debt? Make it your resolution to not only put into practice these things during this "season", but every season throughout the year.
I pray that whether you are on the mountaintop or in a valley, that you will never lose focus of the one who is with us in every season. Keep your eyes, heart and thoughts focused on Him as everything for your life has its time. Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV), "To everything there is a season. A time for every purpose under heaven."
A friend of mine always encourages us not to do life alone. What season are you in? If it's a good season for you, pay it forward; if it's not, surround yourself with loved ones who can help you through the bad times.
Now, how would you finish the statement...
'Tis the season to be...?
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
