The days between Thanksgiving and Christmas are often times for reflection. Here are some random thoughts, and some Scriptures to go along with them. The thoughts may be a bit whimsical, but the Bible verses may be just what you need to hear.

Like many people, I tend to eat too much during the holiday season. We like to highlight those Bible verses that talk about feasting, and ignore the ones that speak about fasting. I really need to eat less than I have in past holiday seasons. Last year, I cut myself shaving right after Thanksgiving, and pure gravy trickled down the side of my cheek! So I’ve decided to make some changes this year. For one thing, I’ve taken up bird watching to occupy my time. So far I’ve spent most of my time staring at the huge bird that’s turning brown in the oven! I have promised myself that I won’t eat any leftovers this holiday season. Yes, that’s right—I’m quitting cold turkey. (Hey, be nice! I hear you groaning out there!)

The Bible warns us against the sin of gluttony. However, it also encourages times of feasting. There’s nothing wrong with splurging; just don’t let overeating become a habit. Proverbs 21:20 says, “In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.”

Some people try to make up for their overeating by starting a fitness routine. A few years ago, I called to ask about joining an exercise class. The instructor told me to wear loose fitting clothing. I replied, “If I had any loose fitting clothing, I wouldn’t need the class!” God’s word points out that …”physical training is of some value…” (1 Timothy 4:8). Exercise does not give you permission to overeat on a regular basis, but it certainly helps you maintain your health and strength. Maybe it’s time for you to get moving!

Other people use the holiday season to try to give up a bad habit. I have a friend who quit smoking last year. He tells me that the experience was so gratifying that he plans to quit smoking again this year! Would you like to put something behind you and move on to a better future? Perhaps Philippians 3:13-14 will give you some inspiration—“…Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal…”

Isn’t it ironic that Black Friday follows Thanksgiving Day? We spend Thursday being thankful for all that we have. Then, the very next day, we get up at 4:00am to go fight the crowds and spend money for more stuff! Do you struggle to be content? Paul was in prison when he wrote, “…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances…I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:12-13).

Thanksgiving must be a very confusing holiday for atheists. They have all these feelings of gratitude, but no one to whom they can give thanks! That reminds me of the story of the atheist couple who had a child. They were determined to raise their son to be an atheist too. One night, when they were tucking the little fellow into bed for the night, he asked his parents, “Do you think God knows that we don’t believe in him?”

I hope that you believe in God, and I hope you had a great Thanksgiving! Let’s look forward to a wonderful Christmas!