Merry (almost) Christmas guys! I know this season can be very overwhelming for many and I’ve actually been dealing with a bit of overwhelm myself these last few months. I’m no stranger to overwhelm, so I want to share the insights I’ve been working through in this season of overwhelm…
When I start to feel really overloaded mentally or emotionally, I realize I’m not spending enough time with God. Simple as that.
When I spend time with God, I receive instant peace. Typically what that looks like for me is a bible study. Whether I am doing it solo or in a group, I always have a purpose behind my study. Some studies I have recently done are re-reading the new testament where I committed to reading 2-4 chapters a day, which typically takes me 30-60 minutes. Then I studied Isaiah. When I read Isaiah I’d read 1-2 chapters a day, which took me 15-30 minutes. Pro tip! Go back and forth between two bible translations to get more depth. My go-tos are the Quest study bible (my favorite) and the Voice. The Voice speaks in a more modern voice and is definitely enjoyable to read before bed, but it is not what I use when I’m doing deep dive study. Currently, I’m doing a study on Elijiah. In this season, I try to find about 30-60 minutes to dive deep. Because I’m in a state of more overwhelm than normal, I’m making room for more quiet time to read and journal. As simple as this sounds, it’s profound. Carving out time during a season of overwhelm feels pretty impossible.
What I find when I make quiet study time with God is I am gifted peace, perspective and direction. He grants me peace that calms my heart rate, and I’m not exaggerating. When I’m with God, it's relaxing. He grants me perspective through His lens. When I read biblical truth, I am guided to see the way God intends for me to live my life, raise my kids, run my business, treat people, honor my husband, serve others and, most importantly, worship Him. This perspective helps break down walls I have put up in my life. I feel more confident making decisions when I know they are in line with God’s blessings. Even when they don’t grant me instant gratification. Here are some awesome verses that have helped me through some hard times to give me perspective. I hope you can soak these in this holiday season and let Christmas be a time of celebrating the peace God is openly giving you.
For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - Jeremiah 29:11
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. - Matthew 6:19-21
Anxiety weighs down the heart but a kind word cheers it up. - Proverbs 12:25
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. - Proverbs 31:25-27
Discipline your children, and they will give you peace: they will bring you the delights you desire. - Proverbs 29:17
Yours,
Jillian
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