The Gift of Joy
Larry Wynn
Luke 1:39-55
Introduction
A. ''Happy holidays.'' ''when you hear the words, do you react with dread and sadness or joy?'' during the season that is supposedly the season of joy many are weighed down by the stress of family gatherings, extra shopping, maintaining traditions, and juggling finances. ''How on earth can we add all the extra holiday demands to our schedule and keep up with everything else? It's no wonder peace on earth alludes us.'' ''as the activities and tension mount, so does our anxiety and irritability. Physical symptoms of depression start showing up. There may be headaches, sadness, fatigue, and even a rapid heartbeat.'' adapted from ''holidays'', ''today's better life magazine''.
B. Why do people get depressed around christmas?
1. Idealized past memories. Many memories include only the good parts of the past. Our minds tend to filter out the bad. The present season can seem disappointing and drab compared to the memory of better times.
2. Unrealistic expectations. ''Try not to expect yourself and others to perform perfectly or respond flawlessly, just because it's the holiday. If grandpa and dad usually argue about politics, they still will. If the kids are hard to please, they're likely to be disappointed with some of the gifts their receive.
3. Feelings of loneliness. Loneliness is intensified during holidays as are crisis.
4. Medical causes of depression. Will be amplified during the holiday season.
5. Overexertion and stress. The lack of sleep, a poor diet, and emotional and physical stress build during the holiday season.
C. There are some keys to a better christmas.
1. Focus on the spiritual significance of the holiday.
2. Make this a time of personal spiritual growth.
3. Remember your blessings.
D. Learning the difference in joy and happiness will make christmas a better experience.
1. Happiness is just what the word says, ''happen-stance''. It is dependent on circu ...
Larry Wynn
Luke 1:39-55
Introduction
A. ''Happy holidays.'' ''when you hear the words, do you react with dread and sadness or joy?'' during the season that is supposedly the season of joy many are weighed down by the stress of family gatherings, extra shopping, maintaining traditions, and juggling finances. ''How on earth can we add all the extra holiday demands to our schedule and keep up with everything else? It's no wonder peace on earth alludes us.'' ''as the activities and tension mount, so does our anxiety and irritability. Physical symptoms of depression start showing up. There may be headaches, sadness, fatigue, and even a rapid heartbeat.'' adapted from ''holidays'', ''today's better life magazine''.
B. Why do people get depressed around christmas?
1. Idealized past memories. Many memories include only the good parts of the past. Our minds tend to filter out the bad. The present season can seem disappointing and drab compared to the memory of better times.
2. Unrealistic expectations. ''Try not to expect yourself and others to perform perfectly or respond flawlessly, just because it's the holiday. If grandpa and dad usually argue about politics, they still will. If the kids are hard to please, they're likely to be disappointed with some of the gifts their receive.
3. Feelings of loneliness. Loneliness is intensified during holidays as are crisis.
4. Medical causes of depression. Will be amplified during the holiday season.
5. Overexertion and stress. The lack of sleep, a poor diet, and emotional and physical stress build during the holiday season.
C. There are some keys to a better christmas.
1. Focus on the spiritual significance of the holiday.
2. Make this a time of personal spiritual growth.
3. Remember your blessings.
D. Learning the difference in joy and happiness will make christmas a better experience.
1. Happiness is just what the word says, ''happen-stance''. It is dependent on circu ...
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