Let the Holidays Bring You Together - PLUS Marriage Devotional
Let the Holidays Bring You Together
By: Jennifer Waddle
“I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” (1 Corinthians 1:10)
Do the holidays bring you together as a couple, or cause division? With all the planning and prepping, husbands and wives often find themselves more stressed than ever. But what if the holidays were meant to bring you together, united as one, with a focus on what matters most?
Resist tension, and commit to making this year the most enjoyable yet. Here are a few meaningful ways to let the holidays bring you together.
Together in Faith
Have you ever collapsed into bed after a big holiday celebration, only to realize you missed the whole reason for celebrating? Thanksgiving is about thankfulness, and Christmas is about Jesus, but most of us get so caught up in the food, fun, and frenzy, we forget the “why.”
Coming together in faith is the most important step in maintaining unity over the holidays. It’s keeping your focus on Christ and His countless blessings. This year, plan your holiday schedule and include a few Spiritual practices to draw you together.
Here are a few meaningful ideas:
1. Memorize 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
2. Pray together at bedtime.
This doesn’t have to be a formal prayer time, but rather, a quiet, intimate time of communing with God and each other.
3. Attend extra worship services.
Beyond your regular church attendance, look for additional services in your community and make worship a priority.
4. Make it about Jesus.
This will help you and your spouse stand firm on the solid foundation of Christ and minimize division. With a few Spiritual disciplines in place, you’ll enjoy the season together without being distracted by frivolous things.
Together in Finances
Of all the divisive things during the holidays, finances are usually at the top of the list. Budgets are tight, and the added expenses can cause a lot of stress.
However! There is a way to come together and make the holidays just as merry and bright as if money weren’t an issue. The key is to view your finances from a stewardship perspective. Here are a few things to discuss as a couple:
How can we enjoy the holidays while sticking to a reasonable budget?
What are the top three expenses that are non-negotiable?
How can we make cuts in other areas to help ease the burden?
How can we best steward our resources in honor of God?
Come together financially, and your holidays will be better than ever. Imagine the relief of knowing you’re on the same page, spending without worry, and staying within the boundaries of your budget.
Together in Family Gatherings
Family gatherings are both fun and stressful. The blending of ages, stages, and personalities always makes for an interesting time. However, when couples are united, family dynamics are no longer an issue. Together, you can serve your loved ones with joy and bear with them, quirks and all.
Here are some fun ways to connect:
-Incorporate a few Would You Rather questions at the dinner table.
-Play the old-fashioned card game, Spoons.
-Ask each family member to share a favorite recipe.
-Watch old home movies.
Perhaps Paul said it best in Philippians 2:1-2, when he said, “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.”
As you are united in Christ, carry that unity over into your family gatherings. What a difference it will make in your peace of mind this holiday season!
Prayer: Lord, we don’t want to be divided during the holidays this year. We desire to come together, spiritually, financially, and relationally. Help us focus on what’s most important—You and our family. Please bless us with true joy and peace as we celebrate together. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Application: What is one thing you want to do differently this year to make the holidays less stressful?
Challenge: Plan a pre-holiday date night to discuss how you’ll stay connected. Choose one idea from the “Together in Faith” section to implement this week.
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