Guarding Your Heart During the Holidays

by Ronald W. Tallman, M.Th.

For most of us Thanksgiving and Christmas conjure up the warmest of memories: being with family, eating together, opening presents, Christmas decorations, Christmas carols playing while watching a crackling fire.

However, one of the most difficult times of the year for singles is this Holiday Season.  We may want so much to be with someone at this time of the year that we close down our reasonable minds and leap at the chance to be with someone who seems to care about us.  Men and women may jump into relationships  with people they would not even consider at other times of the year.  And those of either sex who enjoy preying on others use the emotions of this season to trap unwary victims.  Jesus admonished us to be wary of wolves in sheep's clothing and that applies especially during the Holidays. It always amazes me how many breakups occur the middle  2 weeks of January. Perhaps some folks want to be available for another relationship on Valentine's Day.

Instead of trying to find a romantic relationship for Christmas, why not put your efforts into visiting old friends.   I have always encouraged people to spend less time shopping for things to give at this season, and spend more time visiting friends and family. The greatest gift we can give is the gift of time, and yet few of us really devote this season to spending quality time with those dear to us. 

Remember it is up to you to arrange to be with others on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.  If you have no plans, let people around you know that in an offhand way. (Please, no pleading or sorrowful, lonely looks.)  Usually someone will invite you to be with their family.  If no one invites you, ask some people to join you at your home, or arrange a time to meet somewhere for a meal, go to a Church service or a movie together.   There really is no excuse for you to be alone, unless you choose to do so.

By the way, if you wish to make this an especially memorable Christmas season, try going to as many different churches as you can for their special programs.   I went to ten different Cantatas, plays, and worship services during one Christmas season and felt richly blessed by the experience.  

Remember where ever you go during this season you are either lifting others hearts, or pulling them down.  A warm smile, a helping hand, a word of encouragement do a great deal to help others feel good during this season.  Remember, God is trying to use you each moment of each day. Give Him a chance !

I pray that the Spirit of Jesus Christ may be born anew in your heart this Christmas as we remember the King of Kings and his entrance into this world.

Revised Nov 4, 2010

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Last modified: October 23, 2010