Finding Peace in a Season of Togetherness
The holidays can be a joyful time, but they can also be overwhelming. If you’ve ever felt “peopled out,” you’re not alone. Many of us have mixed levels of resilience, and our family expectations can be unclear (or sometimes very clear) but still feel heavy.
Before you overcommit to Thanksgiving or Christmas this year, take a moment to pause and reflect. The following thoughts may help you approach the season with peace, rest, and faith.
Remember: God Does Not Change
No matter what your circumstances look like this holiday season, God’s character remains steady. His peace and presence are available, even in the busiest or most emotionally charged family gatherings.
Let these Scriptures serve as anchors for your heart:
“Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
“The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing.” Psalm 23:1
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Include Rest in Your Plan
Sabbath rest is not laziness; it’s God’s design for renewal. Build rest into your holiday rhythm. Slow down, breathe deeply, and remember that true rest allows you to love others better.
Pray Through Instead of Pushing Through
When stress begins to rise, invite God into it rather than trying to handle it alone. Use simple “breath prayers”. Short prayers you can repeat quietly throughout your day, such as:
“Lord, give me peace.”
“Jesus, I trust You.”
“Thank You for being with me.”
Simplify and Set God-Honoring Boundaries
It’s easy to overcommit during the holidays, but Jesus Himself modeled limits. He withdrew to pray and rest (Mark 1:35). Before saying yes to every invitation or tradition, ask yourself: “Will this activity help me love God and others, or am I just people-pleasing?” Set limits that serve your nuclear family well and especially consider the needs of your youngest child. How far can we travel? How much can we do and still remain peaceful and present? Boundaries aren’t barriers, they’re a way to protect what matters most.
This holiday season, may you experience God’s peace that surpasses understanding, even in the midst of family gatherings, travel, and full calendars. Take heart, you don’t have to navigate it alone. God is steady, faithful, and present through it all.
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