Prayer Paves the Way to the Holidays

The holidays are nearly here. For many people, perhaps the thought of gathering with family isn’t filled with anticipation but hesitance. Maybe there is a feeling of anxiety or sadness. The truth is that not all families have holidays gatherings that are perfect and filled with joy.

We have a few suggestions that we believe will help because we believe that nothing is impossible with God! You may have prayed about this and over the family members that are unsaved or difficult to be around. Or maybe you simply want to get through all this!

Whatever your situation is, prayer can pave the way to holidays that are more peaceful and purposeful. 

1. Praise the Lord that He rules over all—over every situation, every person, every gathering! (Psalm 103:19; Ephesians 1:21-23)

2. Surrender it all to the Lord. As you do, ask Him to fill you with more of the Spirit to overflow with His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Matthew 6:10; Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:22-23)

3. Ask the Lord of peace to give you peace at all times and in every situation. Ask Him to help you so that you won’t quarrel but instead be at peace with everyone if possible, as far as it depends on you. (2 Thessalonians 3:16; Romans 12:18) 

4. Spend time to ask the Lord to search your heart to see if there is anything – any attitude or thinking that isn’t pleasing to Him. (Psalm 139:23-24) Ask Him to forgive you and help you to focus on what is true, lovely and worthy of praise. (Philippians 4:8) 

5. Pray Scripture for the ones you love. We have a prayer guide that will help: Make My Family Strong. All of the prayers are based on Scripture, which is God’s Word and His will, so they are powerful prayers. Look for the prayers Help us to Love One Another and May We Accept Each Other. 

6. Keep praying for the salvation of loved ones who are far from God. Ask God to draw them now, for this may be the time when their heart is soft. Ask God to give you the right words to share the reason for your hope. (1 Timothy 2:3; John 6:44) 

7. If you or someone you know will be alone, pray for a truly special time of celebrating and for a special sense of His presence--Immanuel, God with us. Those who know Him are never alone. (Matthew 1:23, 28:20)

8. Finally, ask Jesus to help those who have lost loved ones to keep their eyes on Him and find His peace that surpasses all understanding. May the God of all comfort hold them close. (Philippians 4:7; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

May your prayers pave the way for everyone in your circle of family and friends to have a peaceful, truly joyful Christmas season!

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