Holiday blues

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Psalms 34:18

Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and songs (Psalms 95:1-2). For many, this time of the year is brought in with family and friends. Yet for some, this is a lonely and sometimes suicidal time of year. Many know this as the ”Holiday Blues.”

I want to encourage and remind you of your identity in Christ, so you never forget to be sober-minded and alert, because your enemy is wise and on the prowl seeking whomever he can devour (1 Peter 5:8.) If you allow your head to be clouded with emotions, it will be hard to hear the voice of God. Instead of allowing yourself to be consumed with gloom this time, take your emotions and heart to God. He is our comforter, and our Rock. He knows all things, and he’s working out what is best for us. He provides rest for the weary, and healing for the broken-hearted. He provides fresh manna for the hungry and is an endless well that will not run dry. He is our Lord and Savior Christ, and He is here to even save us from ourselves at times.

When you have no one to encourage you, be like David, and encourage yourself in the Lord. 2 Samuel 6:14 says ”And David danced before the Lord with all his might.” Edify yourself through the Scriptures, ”Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles.” – Psalms 119:50. Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. – Pslams 119:105. Affirm yourself in the ordinance of God. ”But still, the law itself is holy, and its commands are holy and right and good” (Romans 7:12.) Study until you show thyself approved, ( 2 Timothy 2:15).”Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13. These Bible verses are in place to help you fight against the mental torment God knew the enemy would try to place against you. This is why He told us to “ meditate on the word both day and night” (Joshua 1:8).

It is a very normal thing to miss someone that we love. But we should focus on the lessons they taught us, that way the good in them still lives with us. Your weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning (Psalms 30:5.) Remeber that joy is still your portion. Remember that your life still means something. No matter what your situation, you’re still loved. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11.) You have a Heavenly Father, who wants a personal relationship with you. He wants to give you His time and attention. He is zoned in on you! Remind yourself of these things before you allow the Spirit of loneliness to steal your joy this season. Begin to develop yourself in these principles of God, get discipleship in the Lord so you can overcome the wiles of the devil. Tis the season to sharpen your spiritual sword by reading the Bible and developing endurance. Cast your burdens on the Lord. There’s nothing too small or too heavy for Him. Take it to Him and walk away with relief. There is restoration and healing available for you this season. Do not allow the holiday blues to come in and steal your joy this time. Run well.