Hectic Holidays by Joe R. Price



(Current events in the light of Scripture)




Long lines. Heavy traffic. Winter weather. All these (and more) can combine to bring a feeling of frantic frenzy as the holiday season approaches. They can also contribute to Christians having less than godly attitudes, charitable words, and kind actions. Here are a few reminders we believe will help us navigate the season with grace and a godly influence. (And, they are also valid qualities to have as we navigate life in view of eternity.)

Plan ahead. Waiting until the last minute to buy groceries, shop for a gift, or do a good deed for others usually brings its own set of challenges. Don’t wait until the last minute is good advice, not only for the holidays, but also for getting ready for the Lord’s return. Being unprepared, the foolish virgins were unable to enter the wedding feast (Matt. 25:1-13). Thinking we will can take care of our spiritual lives at the last minute is very foolish (see Jas. 4:13-17). Plan now to enter heaven. Get ready, today (Acts 22:16; 2 Cor. 6:2).

Exercise patience. Anxiety (which can happen because we are unprepared) contributes to being impatience, harsh with our words, and rash with our reactions. Expect the unexpected, anticipate delays and troubles – not only during the holidays, but throughout your life. Self-control is needed to retain holiness when provoked. Love is not rude and is not provoked (1 Cor. 13:5). Longsuffering and forbearance help us not to retaliate when cut off in a parking lot – or when sinned against (Col. 3:12-13). Patience is the quality of endurance when mistreated, when provoked, and even persecuted. Patience works to mature our faith when we are tested (Jas. 1:3-5).

Consider others. Others have deadlines, appointments, and somewhere to be, too. They face similar demands in life that you face. Being unselfish helps us remember to treat others like we want to be treated (Matt. 7:12). More than that, considering others reminds us they also need to be saved. Let us help save them (not hinder them) by our holy conduct and godly influence (1 Pet. 2:11-12). 

Joe Price can be reached through Bible Answers website.


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