A Prayer for Rest and Renewal in the Busy Holiday Season
By Keri Eichberger
Bible Reading
“Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.” - Psalm 62:5
Listen or Read Below:
One of my least favorite four-letter words seems to be growing in popularity in modern culture. And I bet it’s one you’ve been hearing even more frequently in this bustling season too. Busy.
It’s a word the world tosses around wildly when referring to their overstuffed schedules and never-ending to-do lists. And I don’t know about you, but I kind of can’t stand it. One, because I feel it too. Umm… Hello! We are all busy. But mostly the overuse of this pesky little word drives me so crazy because it doesn’t have to be this way. Sure, we’re super busy, which happens to be of our choosing. But even more true, I bet you are dying for rest, relief, and enjoyment of your blessings, like I am. The way God intended. Yet we fall victim to the expectations of others and ourselves–especially during the holidays–to create and experience the perfect plans. A picture-perfect Christmas. Year after year.
Do you? Do you find yourself caught up in all the busy, but long for a deep sense of rest and renewal so you can actually enjoy the beauty the season beholds?
This entire holiday was intended to be a holy celebration of a long-awaited king that came as a baby to offer everlasting peace to all humanity. A freedom the world was desperate for. A salvation from the weight of sin. And a new life with the ultimate hope of forever in heaven. I so much want to soak in with awe and wonder, the majesty, significance, and true meaning of what we are all running around busy for.
I believe you and I both want to remember and receive the magnitude of the coming of Christ. But instead, we’re spending more time shopping for people that really need nothing, than serving those with nothing to give. We’re exhausting our minds and bodies trying to create and control traditions, instead of just plain appreciating people and enjoying their presence. We stress the perfection of our gift packages, Christmas cookies, and cooking preparation, rather than preparing our hearts to be joyful and peaceful in order to share the love that Jesus came to show and shine. And what does this say about where we are placing our hope?
Bottom line: we are busy placing our hope in gifts, parties, traditions, approval, perfection, and worldly affection. Versus putting our hope in the one and only who can rescue and save our souls. Our one and only savior, Jesus. Who wants rest and renewal for you and me. Not hustle, bustle, and busy. I bet you long for soul rest and a renewed sense of hope right now. Because I think we all do. But God doesn’t need your busy. The world doesn’t either. The Lord just needs you. And you and the world just need him.
Will you do something with me today? Give God your busy. And he will give you back hope, rest, and the renewal that you need in order to soak in the sparkle and significance of this blessed season.
Let’s Pray:
Lord of Renewal, You are the light of hope that this world is longing for. In the midst of my packed-full days that I run myself ragged, I acknowledge I put emphasis on so much that doesn’t really matter. And I spin my wheels trying to control and perfect scenarios, outcomes, and experiences. But deep down I’m worn out and need rest, refreshment, and a renewed spirit. Help me remember my hope comes from you alone. Help me put down the busy, slow down, and sit down with you. Marveling over who you are and why the season truly holds such joy and hope. You are my living hope. My only hope. Who came so humbly into the world to save every soul and offer an eternity of peace in paradise with you. You are the Prince of Peace, the Almighty God, and I pause right here to praise you.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Photo credit: ©Getty/Margarita Khamidulina
Related Resource: How to Choose Your One Word for 2026
This month on the How to Study the Bible Podcast, we’re starting a new series called One Word 2026, and it’s meant to be a gentle but intentional way to reflect, respond, and reconnect with God as we begin the year. In this episode, I’m walking you through why I love taking the whole month of January to pause and listen — rather than rushing into resolutions or putting pressure on yourself to “get it all together” by January 1. We’re going to start with Philippians 1:3–11, where Paul reminds us that we can have real confidence because God is still working in us, and He’s not finished.
Then I’m going to share six words I’ve been praying over for our community — six spiritual intentions that I believe reflect the kind of growth God may be inviting us into this year. You don’t have to choose one right away, and you definitely don’t have to force it — but I hope that one of these words will resonate in your spirit and give you a steady anchor for 2026.
This episode is part of our How to Study the Bible Podcast, a show that brings life back to reading the Bible and helps you understand even the hardest parts of Scripture. If this episode helps you know and love God more, be sure to subscribe to the How to Study the Bible Podcast on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
