6 Tips for a Happy Home over Christmas
The importance of family is often heightened during the Christmas season. With growing pressures on the family unit, here are some simple but profoundly practical and Bible based tips that will help you to enjoy harmony within your family
1. Be quick to say sorry
“How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers and sisters live together in harmony.” Psalm 133:1 (NLT)
The first to say sorry is usually the one to bring peace in the midst of a possible storm. Being a parent who can say sorry to the kids because you have ‘lost it’ at them actually displays strength and humility to them.
2. Be quick to forgive
Jesus said this about forgiveness… “Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37 (NLT)
Forgiveness is about letting go. It shows as parents we are kind and gracious, just as we want our children to be.
3. Carry the load
“Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them.” Proverbs 3:27 (NLT)
Don’t be afraid to give your children tasks. Even the little ones can contribute in some part to the family.
4. Use words that build up and encourage
“… an encouraging word cheers a person up.” Proverbs 12:25
There is nothing better than seeing one child encourage their brother or sister. You can model this to your kids. They love hearing words of love and encouragement.
5. Be trustworthy
Follow through on your word. The Bible puts it like this…
“… let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’, and your ‘No’, ‘No’.”
Mathew 5:37 (NKJV)
I know myself that sometimes I have made promises to my children which I have not followed through on. We need to think about the promises we make, and make sure we keep them!
6. ‘Play’ Together
There is a saying that goes like this… “A family or team that plays together stays together.” Solomon from the Bible (referred to as a very wise man) said it like this… “So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can.” Ecclesiastes 3:12 (NLT).
I remember the times my family had fun together. Turn off the wifi, pull out a board game, throw the ball to the dog. It does not have to cost money, but do something together. Your kids might groan at first, but then they will love it!
(adapted and modified from a Hillsong Blog Post)
