Common Cares of Christmas #1
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Is it? For some people, this is the most difficult time of the year. Christmas is coming and instead of focusing on the birth of our Lord and Savior, many are burdened down with the cares of life. Our cares seem to determine our decisions and behavior during this season. This month I will address some of the common cares at Christmas. Ironically, each of the cares start with the letter F. Can you guess them? Tune in each week to see what each care will be.
The first F stands for Family. There are various decisions that families have to make during this time of year. Some of the questions that come to my mind are the following:
- Will we decorate our home for Christmas?
- Will we stay home or will we travel?
- Will we go to your families house, my family or both?
- Will we have people over for dinner or will we go out to dinner?
- Will we purchase gifts for all of the family or just for a few?
- How much will we spend?
- Will we spend time together or be apart?
- Will this family member be kind or will they act like a fool? (lol)
- What traditions will we follow or establish?
If we are not careful some of the answers to these questions can create stress and strain on a relationship. On the other hand, there are families that are dealing with cares that really have them burdened down such as:
- Mourning the loss of a loved one
- Dealing with the loss of a job
- Caring for elderly parents or sick loved ones
- Dealing with un-forgivingness
- Marital/relationship problems
No matter what your family situation may be, know that God’s got it! He is able to change, heal and fix your situation. Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you, he will never let the righteous be shaken.” In other words, give your burdens to the Lord and he will take care of you. I Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” God wants to give you his peace. He says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you, I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
God loves you and your family. Don’t allow anything that you and your family may be experiencing to take away from celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior. He is the reason for the season. He died so that we could have life. Make Jesus the focus for your family. Keep him in the center of every decision. Have fun with family, friends and enjoy rich fellowship. Share the love of Christ by helping others, sharing your love and your resources.
Until next week . . .
ps Please join me and the FBCG Couple’s Ministry in a special prayer call for couples every Wednesday this month at 10:00 PM. (Dial 1-302-202-1110 access code 751615)
Marriage from A to Z 