A short message today, as we are approaching the last stretch of the year. The last exams and papers of the semester, the last few weeks before we get to rest in the holiday season. We can see the light at the end of the tunnel, and it feels exhausting. We are trying to find out how to cram more work into less time, and it isn’t quite working.

It is tiring, and it feels like you cannot slow down and enjoy the season in all its joy. This season always brings burnout, and then you enter a very busy time of parties and gifts. How do we stay focused on God in this time?

I have two ways that have helped me recently to breathe in this time of final assignments. First is people. Surrounding yourself with good, godly people is key. God provided community for us to grow through, and closer to Him. Through friends I’ve found my best accountability with school assignments and late-night studies. A true friend is one that challenges you to be better and do better. Friends are there to worship with you, through song or conversation. Often a tired mind just needs to be used in other ways on other topics (other than math and history!).

One thing God has been teaching me these last few months is that friends are there for you to serve. For you to pour into and bless. It is a huge mindshift from how our culture views friendships, but it is how God designed friendships to be. Friendships can be draining, but at the end of the day- they are what makes this season so special. It is the spending time with people, friends and family, that brings the joy. Not the perfect party, or a smaller amount of homework. The truth is that in order to find the joy in this season, even in the rush, you have to make time for it yourself. And that includes making time for God.

That’s the second thing I’ve been focusing on, though it is infinitely more important. Spending time with God everyday, no matter how much work we have due. I think we often believe we have to sit down and do a whole devotion, or spend time in deep prayer. But often the most meaningful time with God is the simplest. It’s the time in between classes that I go outside and pray out loud for a few minutes. It’s the quick Bible reading I do at breakfast. Or it’s the impromptu worship with friends. Or it’s the walk you take outside to admire His creation. Spending time with the Lord is limitless.

I think that is the point I’m trying to make. Don’t limit God, and don’t trap yourself. Don’t put this season in a box, tied down by worry and business. Be intentional; find time for joy. Pull down those limitations and pour into people, let people pour into you, and let yourself be surrounded by God in many different ways.

And rest in this upcoming holiday season without limitations or stress.

~ Grace ❤