As the holidays approach, with their whirlwind of family gatherings, twinkling lights, and endless to-do lists, it's easy to feel the weight of it all pulling you away from the quiet moments that feed your soul. You know the ones—those sacred pauses where you connect with God, breathe deeply, and find peace in His Word. But if you're like many faithful women who juggle grandchildren's visits, holiday preparations, and the quiet ache of missing loved ones far away, keeping your faith alive can feel like an uphill battle. Maybe you've started your day with good intentions, whispering a prayer before the sun rises, only to get sidetracked by a phone call from a child or the lure of holiday TV specials. It's in these moments that Scripture steps in as a gentle guide, reminding us that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Today, let's explore how to weave faith into the fabric of your holiday season, one small step at a time, so you can emerge feeling refreshed, connected, and truly encouraged.
Listen to the episode here. Find "Jump to" chapters, Show Notes and the Opportunity to Share:
Tune in on: 
The Holiday Hustle: Why Faith Feels Elusive Right Now
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy and reflection, but perhaps as an empty-nester or grandma who's always putting others first you tend to turn December into a season of overwhelm. You might wake up with a heart full of gratitude, eager to dive into your Bible, only to find your mind racing in a dozen directions, pulled by the demands of baking, shopping, and hosting. It's a common pain point: carving out time for God when life feels like a nonstop whirlwind. I remember a season in my own life when the holidays hit hard—balancing family needs, church commitments, and that inner voice whispering have you taken time for God today? If you're nodding along, you're not alone. Studies show that busyness can lead to spiritual disconnection, making it harder to feel that childlike closeness to God you once knew. But here's the good news: Scripture is filled with promises that speak directly to this struggle.
In Isaiah 40:31, we're reminded that those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. It's a call to pause, even in the chaos, and let God refill your cup. Small steps add up, my friend, and recognizing this challenge is the first step toward reclaiming your faith. Perhaps you're worried about fitting everything into your schedule, or you're dealing with the emotional tug of loneliness when family isn't nearby. Give yourself room to breathe—it's okay to admit that the holidays can make you feel dry, like you're going through the motions without that deep, soul-nourishing connection. By addressing this pain point head-on, we can build practical habits that make faith not just survivable, but thrive able, even when distractions abound.
Scripture as Your Anchor: Verses to Reignite Your Spirit
When the holiday season threatens to drown out your quiet time with God, turning to Scripture can be like a warm embrace from a trusted friend. Let's dive into some key verses that speak to the heart of your challenges, like maintaining consistency in prayer and study amid a busy life.
- Take Philippians 4:6-7, for instance: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Isn't that exactly what you need when holiday stresses pile up? This verse isn't just words on a page; it's a roadmap for transforming worry into worship. Imagine starting your day with this passage, letting it guide you to pray before anything else, even if it's just for five minutes before the coffee brews.
- For those days when you feel disconnected—maybe because your children live far away or their schedule is packed with commitments that don't include mom—Psalm 23:1-3 offers a beautiful reminder: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul." These words encourage us to seek restoration, to find those still waters even in the midst of holiday chaos.
- If you're struggling with a mind that's all over the place, as so many of us do, use this as a prompt to create a simple routine: read this Psalm aloud, close your eyes, and let the words wash over you. Small steps add up, and before you know it, you'll be building a rhythm that helps you hear God's voice more clearly. Give yourself room to breathe by journaling one thing from the verse that resonates, turning it into a personal prayer that fits into your day.
- Another powerful verse for holiday faith is Matthew 11:28-30: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." If you're tired from years of putting others first or feeling guilty about not keeping up with your Bible reading plan, this is your invitation to rest in God's arms. Make it doable today by selecting just one verse to meditate on during a short break—perhaps while sipping tea or walking around the block.
These Scriptures aren't meant to overwhelm; they're tools for encouragement, helping you apply God's truth to your life, like when you're deciding how to say no to extra commitments so you can prioritize your time with Him.
Practical Steps to Integrate Scripture into Your Holiday Routine
Now that we've explored some anchoring verses, let's make this actionable. As a woman who's walked this path, I know the key to keeping faith alive is weaving it into your daily life in ways that feel natural and sustainable. Start by identifying your biggest holiday challenge—maybe it's finding time for God amid family obligations or combating that sense of spiritual dryness. Begin with small, doable steps: set aside five minutes each morning for Scripture reading, using a devotional app or a simple notebook to jot down reflections. This addresses the pain point of distractions, like TV or unexpected calls, by creating a boundary—perhaps by placing your Bible by your bed as a gentle reminder to pray first thing.
One effective way is to tie Scripture to your self-care routine. For instance, as you practice stress relief techniques like deep breathing, pair it with a verse like Psalm 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God." This not only calms your mind but also reinforces your faith, helping you feel more connected even on the busiest days. Remember, small steps add up; you don't have to tackle the entire Bible in a day—just focus on one that speaks to your current season. Give yourself room to breathe if you fall behind; grace is at the heart of God's plan, as seen in Lamentations 3:22-23, which reminds us of His mercies that are new every morning.
During the holidays, incorporate Scripture into family traditions. Read a Christmas-related verse together before meals or use it as a discussion starter for gatherings. This not only keeps your faith alive but also models it for your loved ones, addressing the challenge of applying Scripture to everyday life. And if you're feeling the weight of others' needs pulling you away, use Proverbs 3:5-6 as your guide: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Let this verse help you discern when to say yes or no, creating space for God in your schedule.
Overcoming Common Holiday Faith Barriers with Biblical Wisdom
Let's get real about the barriers that might be holding you back. You might be wondering if your faith is just a story, especially when surrounded by different beliefs during holiday events. It's a valid struggle, one that echoes the doubts in the Bible itself—think of Thomas, who needed to see to believe (John 20:24-29). But Jesus met him there, and He meets us too. In Romans 10:17, we're told that faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. To counter this, immerse yourself in short, intentional Scripture studies, even if it's just listening to an audio Bible while preparing holiday meals. This builds consistency and helps you discern God's voice amid the noise.
Another barrier is the busyness that leads to procrastination or a lack of focus. If you're like many believers, you might find yourself saying, "I'll get to my quiet time later," only to run out of day. Combat this with 1 Corinthians 10:31: "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." Make it doable today by tying your faith practice to an existing habit, like reading a verse before checking your phone. And for those moments of spiritual dryness, draw from Psalm 42:1-2: "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God." Let this inspire you to seek God with intention, perhaps through a weekly reflection journal that tracks how Scripture encourages your soul.
As we navigate these barriers, remember that God values your heart over perfection. If you're behind on your Bible reading plan, that's okay—start fresh with a single chapter that speaks to your holiday stresses. Small steps add up, and over time, you'll find yourself more intentional, more joyful in your faith journey.
Finding Joy and Balance: Scripture for Long-Term Encouragement
Ultimately, keeping your faith alive during the holidays isn't about checking boxes; it's about finding joy in God's presence. Verses like John 15:5—"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing"—remind us that abiding in Christ brings lasting fruit, even in the midst of family dynamics or personal exhaustion. Use this as a foundation for self-care, incorporating practices that nurture your spirit, like a daily gratitude list based on Scripture. This not only relieves stress but also helps you reconnect with God, making your faith a source of strength rather than obligation.
As you step into this holiday season, let Scripture be your compass, guiding you through the ups and downs with wisdom and grace. Whether it's through prayer, reflection, or sharing verses with your grandchildren, you'll discover that faith isn't something to fit in—it's the thread that holds everything together. And if you're ready to dive deeper, to build sustainable rhythms that carry you beyond the holidays, I invite you to join our Bible Study Circle. It's a warm, supportive space where we journey through Scripture together, starting with the New Testament, offering practical tools like printable lessons, audio episodes, and chat sessions to help you stay consistent and encouraged. Here, you'll find the community and resources to make your faith journey even more meaningful—let's keep growing together, one step at a time.
Join our Bible Study Circle and kickstart the New Year with excitement: LEARN MORE
As the holidays approach, with their whirlwind of family gatherings, twinkling lights, and endless to-do lists, it's easy to feel the weight of it all pulling you away from the quiet moments that feed your soul. You know the ones—those sacred pauses where you connect with God, breathe deeply, and find peace in His Word. But if you're like many faithful women who juggle grandchildren's visits, holiday preparations, and the quiet ache of missing loved ones far away, keeping your faith alive can feel like an uphill battle. Maybe you've started your day with good intentions, whispering a prayer before the sun rises, only to get sidetracked by a phone call from a child or the lure of holiday TV specials. It's in these moments that Scripture steps in as a gentle guide, reminding us that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). Today, let's explore how to weave faith into the fabric of your holiday season, one small step at a time, so you can emerge feeling refreshed, connected, and truly encouraged.
Listen to the episode here. Find "Jump to" chapters, Show Notes and the Opportunity to Share:
Tune in on:
The Holiday Hustle: Why Faith Feels Elusive Right Now
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy and reflection, but perhaps as an empty-nester or grandma who's always putting others first you tend to turn December into a season of overwhelm. You might wake up with a heart full of gratitude, eager to dive into your Bible, only to find your mind racing in a dozen directions, pulled by the demands of baking, shopping, and hosting. It's a common pain point: carving out time for God when life feels like a nonstop whirlwind. I remember a season in my own life when the holidays hit hard—balancing family needs, church commitments, and that inner voice whispering have you taken time for God today? If you're nodding along, you're not alone. Studies show that busyness can lead to spiritual disconnection, making it harder to feel that childlike closeness to God you once knew. But here's the good news: Scripture is filled with promises that speak directly to this struggle.In Isaiah 40:31, we're reminded that those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. It's a call to pause, even in the chaos, and let God refill your cup. Small steps add up, my friend, and recognizing this challenge is the first step toward reclaiming your faith. Perhaps you're worried about fitting everything into your schedule, or you're dealing with the emotional tug of loneliness when family isn't nearby. Give yourself room to breathe—it's okay to admit that the holidays can make you feel dry, like you're going through the motions without that deep, soul-nourishing connection. By addressing this pain point head-on, we can build practical habits that make faith not just survivable, but thrive able, even when distractions abound.
Scripture as Your Anchor: Verses to Reignite Your Spirit
When the holiday season threatens to drown out your quiet time with God, turning to Scripture can be like a warm embrace from a trusted friend. Let's dive into some key verses that speak to the heart of your challenges, like maintaining consistency in prayer and study amid a busy life.- Take Philippians 4:6-7, for instance: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Isn't that exactly what you need when holiday stresses pile up? This verse isn't just words on a page; it's a roadmap for transforming worry into worship. Imagine starting your day with this passage, letting it guide you to pray before anything else, even if it's just for five minutes before the coffee brews.
- For those days when you feel disconnected—maybe because your children live far away or their schedule is packed with commitments that don't include mom—Psalm 23:1-3 offers a beautiful reminder: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul." These words encourage us to seek restoration, to find those still waters even in the midst of holiday chaos.
- If you're struggling with a mind that's all over the place, as so many of us do, use this as a prompt to create a simple routine: read this Psalm aloud, close your eyes, and let the words wash over you. Small steps add up, and before you know it, you'll be building a rhythm that helps you hear God's voice more clearly. Give yourself room to breathe by journaling one thing from the verse that resonates, turning it into a personal prayer that fits into your day.
- Another powerful verse for holiday faith is Matthew 11:28-30: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." If you're tired from years of putting others first or feeling guilty about not keeping up with your Bible reading plan, this is your invitation to rest in God's arms. Make it doable today by selecting just one verse to meditate on during a short break—perhaps while sipping tea or walking around the block.
These Scriptures aren't meant to overwhelm; they're tools for encouragement, helping you apply God's truth to your life, like when you're deciding how to say no to extra commitments so you can prioritize your time with Him.
Practical Steps to Integrate Scripture into Your Holiday Routine
Now that we've explored some anchoring verses, let's make this actionable. As a woman who's walked this path, I know the key to keeping faith alive is weaving it into your daily life in ways that feel natural and sustainable. Start by identifying your biggest holiday challenge—maybe it's finding time for God amid family obligations or combating that sense of spiritual dryness. Begin with small, doable steps: set aside five minutes each morning for Scripture reading, using a devotional app or a simple notebook to jot down reflections. This addresses the pain point of distractions, like TV or unexpected calls, by creating a boundary—perhaps by placing your Bible by your bed as a gentle reminder to pray first thing.One effective way is to tie Scripture to your self-care routine. For instance, as you practice stress relief techniques like deep breathing, pair it with a verse like Psalm 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God." This not only calms your mind but also reinforces your faith, helping you feel more connected even on the busiest days. Remember, small steps add up; you don't have to tackle the entire Bible in a day—just focus on one that speaks to your current season. Give yourself room to breathe if you fall behind; grace is at the heart of God's plan, as seen in Lamentations 3:22-23, which reminds us of His mercies that are new every morning.
During the holidays, incorporate Scripture into family traditions. Read a Christmas-related verse together before meals or use it as a discussion starter for gatherings. This not only keeps your faith alive but also models it for your loved ones, addressing the challenge of applying Scripture to everyday life. And if you're feeling the weight of others' needs pulling you away, use Proverbs 3:5-6 as your guide: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Let this verse help you discern when to say yes or no, creating space for God in your schedule.
Overcoming Common Holiday Faith Barriers with Biblical Wisdom
Let's get real about the barriers that might be holding you back. You might be wondering if your faith is just a story, especially when surrounded by different beliefs during holiday events. It's a valid struggle, one that echoes the doubts in the Bible itself—think of Thomas, who needed to see to believe (John 20:24-29). But Jesus met him there, and He meets us too. In Romans 10:17, we're told that faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. To counter this, immerse yourself in short, intentional Scripture studies, even if it's just listening to an audio Bible while preparing holiday meals. This builds consistency and helps you discern God's voice amid the noise.Another barrier is the busyness that leads to procrastination or a lack of focus. If you're like many believers, you might find yourself saying, "I'll get to my quiet time later," only to run out of day. Combat this with 1 Corinthians 10:31: "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." Make it doable today by tying your faith practice to an existing habit, like reading a verse before checking your phone. And for those moments of spiritual dryness, draw from Psalm 42:1-2: "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God." Let this inspire you to seek God with intention, perhaps through a weekly reflection journal that tracks how Scripture encourages your soul.
As we navigate these barriers, remember that God values your heart over perfection. If you're behind on your Bible reading plan, that's okay—start fresh with a single chapter that speaks to your holiday stresses. Small steps add up, and over time, you'll find yourself more intentional, more joyful in your faith journey.
Finding Joy and Balance: Scripture for Long-Term Encouragement
Ultimately, keeping your faith alive during the holidays isn't about checking boxes; it's about finding joy in God's presence. Verses like John 15:5—"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing"—remind us that abiding in Christ brings lasting fruit, even in the midst of family dynamics or personal exhaustion. Use this as a foundation for self-care, incorporating practices that nurture your spirit, like a daily gratitude list based on Scripture. This not only relieves stress but also helps you reconnect with God, making your faith a source of strength rather than obligation.As you step into this holiday season, let Scripture be your compass, guiding you through the ups and downs with wisdom and grace. Whether it's through prayer, reflection, or sharing verses with your grandchildren, you'll discover that faith isn't something to fit in—it's the thread that holds everything together. And if you're ready to dive deeper, to build sustainable rhythms that carry you beyond the holidays, I invite you to join our Bible Study Circle. It's a warm, supportive space where we journey through Scripture together, starting with the New Testament, offering practical tools like printable lessons, audio episodes, and chat sessions to help you stay consistent and encouraged. Here, you'll find the community and resources to make your faith journey even more meaningful—let's keep growing together, one step at a time.
Join our Bible Study Circle and kickstart the New Year with excitement: LEARN MORE
Christian Women Empowerment
