It's The Most Difficult Time Of The Year

As you turn on the radio, watch TV, or shop at the mall, you'll hear the sounds of the season. Christmas music, especially the classics, brings unmistakable joy to most people. However, for some, the holiday season is overshadowed by grief. They may long to enjoy the festive spirit, but their struggles—such as a breakup, divorce, job loss, missed opportunities, financial difficulties, health crises, family conflicts, or the passing of a loved one—make it difficult. Whether the loss is recent or occurred years ago, the impact of grief or a life-changing event is felt more deeply during this time of year. As a result, what is often referred to as "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year" can feel more like "The Most Difficult Time of the Year" for many.

Zechariah and Elizabeth, a couple in the Bible, experienced deep disappointment. They were faithful to God, yet they were unable to have children, which carried a social stigma in their time. Luke 1:5-8 says, "When Herod was king of Judea, there was a Jewish priest named Zechariah. He was a member of the priestly order of Abijah, and his wife, Elizabeth, was also from the Aaronic priestly line. 6 Zechariah and Elizabeth were righteous in God's eyes, careful to obey all of the Lord's commandments and regulations. 7 They had no children because Elizabeth was unable to conceive, and they were both very old."
Luke, the historian, notes just how committed Zechariah and Elizabeth were in their faith. Zechariah's name means, (Yahweh remembers), and Elizabeth's name denotes, (God is my oath.) To say they were faithful would be an understatement! They remained diligent in their obedience despite their disappointment. See, Elizabeth could not conceive a child during her childbearing years. Now well advanced in years (some scholars say in her early 80s), all hope of having a child seemed lost, and Luke reports her disappointment.

You may be experiencing your own struggles this season, which has left you feeling grief-stricken and disappointed. The thought of celebrating Christmas feels more like a burden, though you would never admit it aloud. In fact, you might wish you could sleep through the holiday and wake up on January 2nd!

However, since you can't escape your struggles, it's essential to seek God's strength. Instead of succumbing to grief, choose to believe! Reflect on the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth: a crucial part of maintaining your faith and the perseverance to move forward is staying committed to the Lord, even in times of disappointment. While this advice may not be popular, it is the most effective and powerful response.
When feelings of distress and discouragement overwhelm your mind about what you've lost or what could have been, you may be tempted to isolate yourself. However, don't give in to that urge! Instead, stand firm in your faith and fulfill your spiritual responsibilities, especially by attending church. You will find that the core commitments of your faith can anchor your life during storms of disappointment. Staying faithful will bring you a greater awareness of God's presence.

Remember, God has promised to draw close to you as you draw near to Him! Thankfully, He understands every tear that falls from your eyes. Psalm 56:8 says, "You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book."

Recognizing this, don't give up, even during what might be your "Most Difficult Time of the Year." Instead, when feelings of despair creep in, remember this promise: "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18)