Oh, joy! The season of stuffing and glad tidings is upon us! Getting a tad anxious? No worries…

Here are 5 fail-proof ways to have the holiday of your dreams…

1. Dress appropriately.

We just feel better when we wear comfortable clothing. This holiday season make sure to grab a “garment of praise.” Always in style, you will be sure to turn heads and bring a smile to those around you.

…to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. (Isaiah 61:3)

 2. Maintain tunnel vision.

There will be zillions of details pulling you in as many directions. (Settle the squabble between Uncle Irvis and Aunt Edna, or sneak away and watch football?) Stay focused. Maintain heart-contact with the Anchor of your soul.

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. (Isaiah 26:3)

3. Lean a little (or a lot).

That turkey can get heavy. So can carrying on family traditions when circumstances seem upside-down. You can have strong arms from pumping iron, but your heart may need extra tender-loving-care. It is so okay to lean…

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. (Psalm 28:7)

4. Wrack your brain and remember.

Uncle Irvis loves to talk about the “good ‘ole days.” He may be long-winded, but listen closely. This is good stuff. Reminding ourselves of God’s faithfulness over the generations brings hope and promise for tomorrow.

 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17)

5. Shout!

No, not at that relative sitting across from you with “crazy” political views. Shout/speak life. Praise. Love. Compassion. It tends to put various “opinions” and “views” into perspective. And I’ve heard it helps digestion.

…give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

 

Heart Undivided wishes you a blessed Thanksgiving! And I pass on a reminder from Pastor Matt Martin at Cool Springs Baptist:

As we go around the table sharing what we’re thankful for, let’s keep in mind what thankfulness actually is—showing gratitude to someone for something they’ve done for you. Instead of murmuring, “I’m thankful for _____,” let’s exclaim, “I praise God for ______!”

It’s all about remembering the Someone of our thankfulness. (Paraphrased without permission) 🙂

Praising God for you,

Leigh Ann

*Peanuts graphic from Bing Images