During this time of year we are all under pressure from so many distractions - rushing to get all the shopping done, preparing for guests, missing loved ones no longer with us, dealing with relatives, lack of sleep, and wrapping all those presents. It is good to take some time to depressurize and find time for oneself. Here are some great suggestions from the Bible.

1. Keep It Simple – Remember the Lord taught us, "Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth." We don't have to have it all. "Having food and raiment let us be therewith content" (I Timothy 6:8). The kids don't have to have everything. Let's appreciate what we have.
2. Take Good Care of Your Body and Mind – "I will lay me down and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety" (Psalm 4:8). "Keep thy mind with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life." Proverbs 4:23) Refuse to allow doubt, fear, or anxiety to creep into your thinking. Remember our bodies are temples of God and deserve our best efforts at upkeep (I Corinthians 6:19-20).
3. Look To The Misfortunes of Others – "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others" (Philippians 2:4). A great psychologist once remarked, "If I thought I was losing my mind, the first thing I would do is find someone to help who was less fortunate than me."
4. Be Faithful to God and the Services of the Church – Remember Jesus promised, "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give you a crown of life" (Revelation 2:10). Seeking first anything other than the kingdom of God and His righteousness is a tragic mistake (Matthew 6:33).
5. LIVE TODAY - "If the Lord will, we shall do this or that" (James 4:15). "Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof" (Matthew 6:34). Today is the day of salvation (II Corinthians 6:2)!

From my family to yours, we wish for each of you God's richest blessings – Peace, Forgiveness, Warmth of Love, Joy, and Good things always. Have a very Merry Christmas and a Grand New Year!

Larry & Cindy