Pastor Andy Stanley of the North Point Community Church understands that the Christmas season, despite being a cause for merriment for many people, can be extremely difficult for some—especially those who are going through it as a recently separated or divorced person.
"If you're facing the holidays for the first time as a recently separated or divorced person, you may have no idea what to expect, except that things will be different," he writes on his blog. "Even things that remain the same, like listening to Christmas carols on the radio, will likely feel different without your spouse. Perhaps the healthiest choice you can make is to prepare for this reality and set appropriate expectations during this time."
Managing expectations is the key to surviving the holiday season, said Stanley, because expecting too much might cause a person to feel even worse than usual.
"For example, anticipate that you will probably feel lonely during the holidays and make plans to be with family or friends who can provide needed companionship and encouragement," he suggests. "Expect that you will likely have less energy to handle (by yourself) all the demands you used to share with your spouse. Decide what things have to be done and what things can wait. Give yourself permission to ask for help when you need it."
And who better to turn to than God during one's hour of need? "And finally, pray to God and expect him to meet ALL your needs: emotional, spiritual, physical, and financial. He loves you and cares for you. As his child, you can count on the faithfulness of his promises," assures Stanley.
To further help people cope, Stanley shared the Bible verses Matthew 6:31-33. It says: "So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
