Hope for the Hurting: Encouragement for Difficult Holiday Seasons

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. -Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

The holiday season can stir up a mix of emotions—joy for some, but deep pain and heaviness for others. For many who are grieving, overwhelmed, or quietly struggling through difficult circumstances, this time of year can feel especially challenging. Today, Pastor Angela Kennedy of The Miracle Center Church shares a heartfelt word of encouragement for anyone walking through a hurting season. With honesty and compassion, she speaks to the real emotions we face and reminds us that God draws near to the brokenhearted. 

Her message begins with a look at grief—what it is, how it affects us, and why acknowledging our emotions is an important step toward healing. 

Grief 

Grief is the loss of someone or something. Most often we try to suppress our emotions, but they are a part of who we are and although we feel we can’t control them, they are often a sign that something within us needs attention. There are stages of grief—bargaining, anger, sadness—and most often we are blindsided, especially when we lose a loved one unexpectedly. 

In these times, it’s good to be surrounded by people of faith and people who will encourage you to grieve in healthy ways. One way is to keep the person’s life a memory of shared moments. There are times when you will need to speak with someone who can assist you through the process and encourage you to navigate the space in complete transparency, understanding that you are not alone. 

A scripture that comes to mind is Psalm 147:3 that says, He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. 

Depression 

Depression studies have shown that depression is anger turned inward. It can be from years of torment over past mistakes, not forgiving ourselves, and the list goes on. One thing to remember is that we can’t control what has happened in the past, but we can make different choices—including the choice to forgive ourselves and others for past mistakes. 

The scripture that helps is Matthew 11:28–30, Come to Me, all you who are weary. We have to learn to come back to God, as He never leaves or forsakes us. 

Loneliness 

Loneliness is one thing that I’ve come to realize that we can be lonely but never alone, as long as we have Christ in our lives. But let’s be real; we can be in a room filled with people and still feel lonely. We may ask ourselves, “What is this all about?” 

Sometimes we lose our way to true connection. Sometimes life challenges and unexpected circumstances can make us feel like we are by ourselves. It’s good to link in with people who have like-minded views—like faith in God and who will support our values. 

Our peace is very important, so we have to protect it at all costs. I challenge us all to review our values and decide what really brings peace and be intentional about being in those spaces. It’s in those quiet moments when we hear the still, small voice, and it brings a sense of closeness. 

Family Pressure 

Family Pressure like family traditions that you no longer align with and unrealistic expectations can be a major source of anxiety during the holiday season. I can say having healthy boundaries, saying no when you feel overwhelmed, and knowing your limits will definitely make your holiday gatherings more manageable. 

Sometimes we commercialize the holidays, and it takes the fun out of spending quality time together. Take time to make a list of the things you are grateful for, and this will definitely set a new tone for the true meaning of Christmas and beyond. 

We forget that we celebrate Christ’s birth and bonding, but because the world places unrealistic expectations, it can cause major stress—financially, emotionally, and beyond. I believe we still have to live the entire 11 months after Christmas, so always use wisdom in coming up with new ways to celebrate that don’t require us to spend money we don’t have. Amen. 

Emotional Fatigue During the Holidays 

I can’t stress enough about the importance of healthy boundaries, realistic expectations, and the impact they have on us emotionally. It’s very important to be intentional even before planning or getting out those invites or making lists as long as the week. 

Remember, rest and relaxation are just as important, and we have all heard that you can’t pour from an empty cup. I like to think of our emotions as fuel tanks; they can be full, and they can be empty. When we are at the halfway point, we may want to slow down the process and allow a breath or two, even listening for times when we may be becoming overwhelmed or fatigued. Take a moment to think to yourself:

Did you sleep well the night before?

Did you eat properly?

Did you check in with yourself when you were feeling short fused?

All these are signs that you may be operating on fumes or close to running low. 

Weekly I share with clients that it’s important that you do some self-reflection, and it could look like processing the day by asking these questions:

Was there anything that I could’ve done differently?

When was the last time you took a day off?

When was the last time you took a vacation?

When was the last time you did something you enjoyed, just for you?

Sometimes you have to be selfish and make sure you have what you need. We are not good for anyone else until we can show up for ourselves. 

Lastly, set a goal for yourself, especially when it gets busy. If you say that you will stop at 4 p.m., then at 3:45 p.m. you should start winding down so you can meet the goal that you have set. The same grace and patience that you extend to others, make sure you extend to yourself. 

3 John 1:3 states, Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in good health. I believe God wants us to prosper and be in good health. We can’t do that if we are stressed out. 

Pastor Angela Kennedy 

The Miracle Center Church 

Closing Words for the creator and founder of The Bible Bloom: 

I pray this blog post blessed you, comforted you, and gave you hope for whatever season you may be navigating. You are not alone. May God’s peace surround you, may His presence steady your heart, and may His love lift you in the days ahead. 

If this encouraged you, feel free to share it with someone who could use a little hope today. 

With grace and love,  

Yvonne Perry