Does Easter Stress You Out?

I'll keep this short and snappy because I know you have a lot to get done today!!! 


Holidays can be really rough on mamas!  We put a lot of pressure on ourselves to do it all perfectly.  There's a laundry list of things we have to do to pull off great memories and a meaningful day for our kids and the pressure can warp mommies mood!


Let me forewarn you - Satan HATES Easter and us celebrating Jesus Christ rising from the dead!  He would LOVE to ruin your holiday.  There are many spiritual battles that we may face tomorrow and we need to be aware and stand firm (Ephesians 6)!


So here's a few practical things to remember:

1.  It's the tradition of being together year after year that builds security and love within the family.  NOT how big the basket is or how perfectly the eggs are dyed.

2.  Be on guard against marital strife.  Inevitably your husband is not going to help enough or is going to do it his way not yours.  Bite your tongue (till it bleeds mamas!)- be gentle with your words toward your husband - avoid having an Easter blow up - that ruins it for everyone.  If there's something that is just way out of line - pull him aside privately or save it until bedtime to discuss (unless of course someone is in danger!).


3.  Before you go to bed be sure everyone's clothes and shoes and bows and accessories are out and ready to go in the morning.  Put out the breakfast plates and bowls so breakfast is quick - you'll be in a hurry to church and might want a picture before you leave (be sure your camera batteries are charged).  These extra few minutes can make the difference between being frazzled and pleasant.


4.  Get enough sleep tonight - do not stay up late watching television or browsing blogs and facebook. Be disciplined about your bedtime tonight. 


5.  Wake up before everyone else and get your quiet time in and shower.  I know that might mean waking at 5am but trust me - if you are a step ahead of your family the day will go much more smoothly than if you are a step behind.

6.  Pray and ask God to give your family peace and joy today.  Someone could wake up sick, get chocolate down the front of their pretty dress, the Ham might not turn out right or your mother-in-law might just say something annoying again.  Remember - there is a spiritual battle we are in - pray continually that God will help you to respond lovingly and patiently and peacefully all day long!

I am saying a prayer for all who read this post today - that God would bless your Easter!  Stand firm mamas!!!

Ps. 34:3 "O magnify the Lord with me, And let us exalt His name together."

Walk with the King!

This is linked to A Holy Experience.