The holidays can often be a depressing time for many people as thoughts of spending the holidays alone can be very depressing. Whether you’re single because of a circumstance or just waiting for marriage no one wants to spend that time alone. As you observe folks around you seemingly having a grand ole time with their partner or loved ones, you may feel as if life is unfair or you were dealt some kind of low blow. But the truth is, even if you feel like you’re alone…you’re not because God is always there. This may sound so cliche…: Yes, I know God is always with me, but that doesn’t change my circumstance you may think. True, your situation may be what it is but it doesn’t have to define you.
After being single for almost 25 years I have realized that life may play out in ways I would not have chosen but how I process it is another thing. In Deuteronomy 31:8, we read: The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged- NIV. Although things happen in life as we live in a very fallen world, God promises that He will not leave us. Cling to Jesus, the true source of hope and comfort. So whether you are single, not by your choosing, or alone through circumstances, you can enjoy the holidays as you think of the hope in Jesus.
Being grateful plays a huge part in how life is processed. It’s almost human nature to focus on what we do not have or what we want. But in the same breath, it’s amazing how thinking back to the things you do have can encourage your soul. And it’s not just putting a Band-Aid on the reality of your situation but is truly being thankful for what you do have. This was a lesson I had to learn. Being a single mom around the holidays can be pretty taxing. Not only did I wish to share special moments with someone. I also wished I wasn’t by myself dealing with all of the responsibilities of holiday shopping, meal prep for the kids, activities at school, appointments, working a full time demanding job. At times I felt as if I needed to split myself to be in multiple places at the same time. Everything was becoming a burden and I found myself just wishing for the holidays to be over.
It took a lot for me to begin to open my eyes and realize I needed a change of perspective. As I began to focus on Jesus and all of the things He was doing. I began to see all the people He put in my path who needed encouragement during the holidays. As I sat back I focused on God. I began to realize I had a lot to be grateful for as well.
So whatever your circumstances may be, gratitude can really help you to see the positive things in your situation. The focus has to be shifted from the bad and what you don’t have or what’s not happenning. Again it doesn’t mean that your reality isn’t the reality but God is there through our good days and our bad days. He is the always present help.
As you approach the holidays, I want to encourage you to begin to think about the things that are important to you and the things you are grateful for!
Let Jesus be your single hope!