You know, life has a funny way of reminding us that we’re not always in control, even when we think we’ve got everything planned out. Proverbs 16:9 says, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Now, that’s just the good book’s way of telling us that while we might think we’re steering the ship, it’s God who’s really at the helm.
We spend so much time plotting and planning, figuring out every little detail. We’ve got our calendars, our to-do lists, and our five-year plans, but sometimes life has away of surprising us—a flat tire on a rainy day, a phone call with bad news, or an unexpected detour that takes us miles out of our way. And just when we think we’re lost, somehow, we end up exactly where we need to be.
It’s like when you’re driving down a country road, and the GPS tells you to turn left into what looks like a cow pasture. You’re sure it’s wrong, but you go ahead anyway because, deep down, you trust it. That’s what Proverbs 16:9 is all about. We can make all the plans we want, but it’s God who knows the best route. So, when life takes you on an unexpected turn, don’t sweat it. Trust that there’s a reason, even if you can’t see it just yet.
So, keep making your plans, but remember to leave a little room for God to guide your steps. After all, He’s never let us down before.
I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. -Psalm 40:1-2
Alright folks, let’s take a minute to dive into Psalms 40:1-2. Now, imagine you’re in the middle of a sticky Southern summer day, stuck in traffic on I-85 with no air conditioning. You’re hot, you’re tired, and it feels like there’s no end in sight. That’s kinda what life throws at us sometimes, right? We’re knee-deep in problems, and it seems like we’re never gonna get out.
But then David steps in with a bit of wisdom. He says, “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” Now, if that ain’t somethin’ to hold onto, I don’t know what is.
David’s tellin’ us that even when we’re stuck in life’s muck, if we wait on the Lord, He’s gonna hear us. And He won’t just listen; He’ll pull us right outta that mess and set us on solid ground. It’s like finally hittin’ a stretch of open highway after bein’ stuck in traffic—what a relief!
Life’s got a way of boggin’ us down, but God’s got a way of liftin’ us up. So next time you find yourself in a jam, remember David’s words. Be patient, keep the faith, and know that help is on the way. The Lord’s got a tow truck ready to pull you out and put you back on the road. Keep believin’, y’all…
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:6-7
The holiday season, often associated with joy and celebration, can also bring about stress and anxiety for many individuals. With the hustle and bustle of shopping, social gatherings, and expectations, it’s common to feel overwhelmed. However, it’s important to take proactive steps to manage and minimize holiday anxiety to ensure a more enjoyable and peaceful season.
Acknowledge Your Feelings:
Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel anxious or stressed during this time. The pressure to create perfect moments or meet unrealistic expectations can add to these feelings. Recognizing and accepting these emotions is the first step in addressing them.
Set Realistic Expectations:
Avoid setting overly high expectations for yourself, others or the holidays. Understand that perfection is unattainable, and it’s okay if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned. Embrace imperfections and focus on the joy of the moment rather than aiming for flawless celebrations.
Plan and Prioritize:
Create a manageable plan for the holiday season. List the tasks that need to be accomplished and prioritize them based on importance. Breaking down tasks into smaller, achievable steps can help prevent feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the season.
Practice Self-Care:
Amidst the chaos, prioritize self-care. Ensure you get enough sleep, maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, read spiritual literature and practice relaxation techniques such as prayer, meditation or deep breathing. Taking care of your spiritual, physical and mental well-being can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety.
Set Boundaries:
Learn to say ‘no’ when necessary. It’s okay to decline invitations or requests that may add unnecessary stress to your life. Setting boundaries protects your mental and emotional health, allowing you to enjoy the holidays more fully.
Focus on Meaningful Moments:
Redirect your focus from material aspects to meaningful experiences. Spend quality time with loved ones, engage in activities that bring joy, and participate in volunteering or acts of kindness. Connecting with others and giving back can add a deeper sense of fulfillment during the holidays.
Budget Wisely:
Financial stress is a common trigger during the holidays. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Consider alternatives to expensive gifts, such as homemade presents or organizing gift exchanges to reduce financial strain. Remember, it’s the thought that counts!
Seek Support:
Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Sometimes sharing your feelings or seeking guidance can provide valuable perspective and alleviate anxiety. Every now and then, everyone needs to unload their truck!
Reflect and Appreciate:
Take time to reflect on the positives of the holiday season. Practice gratitude for the moments, experiences, and people in your life. Gratitude can shift your focus from stressors to appreciation, fostering a more positive mindset.
Enjoy Yourself!
In conclusion, while holiday anxiety is common, it’s possible to manage it effectively by setting realistic expectations, prioritizing self-care, focusing on meaningful moments, and seeking support when needed. By incorporating these strategies, you can navigate the holiday season with greater calmness, allowing yourself to truly enjoy the festive spirit and the real reason for the season.
Michael Joe Harvell 