Welcome to God's Lemonade Stand

It is my hope that by reading this daily you will grow in your walk with Christ and knowledge of scriptures and be set free from any struggles in your life that are weighing you down. Be blessed to be a blessing.

Friday, December 9, 2011

HOLDING ON TO PEACE

We are in the time of year where many people lose their peace. Ironically this 'peace on Earth good will to men' doesn't seem to go too far in our modern world, especially during Christmas. Odd, we are supposed to be joyful celebrating our Lord's birth but little by little we let the worldly definition of the 'holiday' start to pressure us and define us. Try as we might we get caught up in the busyness resulting in frazzled nerves and depleted bank accounts? I am pretty sure Jesus would like us happy and calm on His special day. Guess what! It is possible to achieve this.

First, do not think you have to do everything because it is the 'thing to do' or others are doing it. Romans 12:2 tells us to "not be confirmed to this world, but be  transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Next,when spending money ask yourself "can I afford it and do I really need it"? Simple is sometimes way better. If you find yourself out of work, underemployed, or on a tight budget it is especially critical to be good stewards of the money God has blessed you with. This is the time of year we think of others so maybe find a worthy charity or that familiar 'red kettle' and put your money there if you really do not need anything.

Don't forget to put Jesus first by having your daily quiet time. You can get so busy celebrating his birthday you totally ignore your time alone with Him. You can run all over the place, go to all the Christmas programs trying to create special memories, but have some balance in your activity list. Do not feel compelled to buy a gift if someone got you one and you feel bad. That is not the point. People give gifts not to get patted on the back but to bless you. A return gift is not an obligation. Accept any gift you get graciously as the giver wanted to bless you. Don't knock yourself out making cookies and candy unless you really have time. Most folks do not need to eat the extra calories anyway. New Years resolutions abound in weight loss commitments many of which fall by way side, no pun intended.

So there briefly are just a few ways to try to stay peaceful the remainder of December. John 14:27 says "Peace I leave you my peace I give to you, not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled neither let it be afraid."

I am not telling you not to enjoy Christmas. It is Jesus birthday, not Santa's by the way, and we are supposed to celebrate! But all things in moderation so you can be able to worship the Lord and maintain peace.

PRAYER: I am thankful for Jesus and this time of year to celebrate but Lord help me to not compare myself to others or feel obligated to rush into many things, many which are manmade traditions, that will only cause stress. Give me wisdom on my activities for this special time of year. In Jesus name. Amen

Note: please click on link and enjoy a wonderful worship song. Thank goodness for talented gifted musicians.
http://youtu.be/A1oHJR2g7Tw

No comments:

Post a Comment