When It Ends.

​I don't know about you but I love the holidays, Christmas, New Years. Awesome! I feel so much joy over Christmas especially. I get to give things to the people I love. We can do our best to help the less fortunate enjoy the time also. The most important thing is that we can think about and celebrate Jesus's birth. (Yes I know it probably wasn't in December.) But that is when we think of it the most. 

The thought that Jesus would come to this sin-stained planet is what really brings me joy in the Holidays. A planet in which regular life is relatively painful.  To think that He would come here, and help us! That is pretty amazing. 

Then comes January... 

when you have probably overextended yourself financially. When the vacations are over.  When you get way too busy trying to keep up your resolutions. That is when it gets hard. Sure it's probably not all that rough yet. You are probably living on with that holiday high. But it's coming. 

Why am I bringing this up? Because it's a reality for many. And when you are not expecting it, it is way worse. Depression hits. Yep. The D-word. 1 in 4 Americans struggles with depression at some point. It's real.  But when you know what to expect you can be ready. And when you're ready things don't catch you by surprise. Murphy's law doesn't come to your house when you are prepared.

So this year when the January-February cold winter blues hit let's try five different things that can keep you from that "After-Christmas" down. 

1. Establish a regular devotional life. Yes, read your Bible. A good one for this is the chapters we read the other day, Matthew 4-7.  You could also read much of the book of Psalms. Today I am reading Matthew 8-10, join me! Spend some prayer time praising God and counting the ways you have been blessed. 

2. Exercise every day for at least 30 minutes. It is proven that people who regularly exercise have a lower instance of depression.  -- Mayo Clinic study.

3. Drink more water. Believe it or not, this helps. When you are dehydrated or jacked up on sugar, you are more likely to have more ups and downs emotionally. 

4. Give someone a hug today. Human contact is also proven to lower depression. 

5. Go to bed early. Much of the western culture is sleep deprived. You will be surprised what a little extra sleep can do.

But honestly out of all of this the most important in my perspective is number 1. Spend more time with Jesus. Read your Bible and pray more. He has changed so many lives and I know He can change yours. Prioritize your time with Him today.