Solomon reminds us that there is a time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1) including people eating and drinking and enjoying the fruits of their labor because all these things are a gift from God (Ecclesiastes 3:13). Paul would instruct the Corinthians that whether they ate, drank, or whatever they did, they were to do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Taking these verses together, I conclude that there is even a time for rest and relaxation or vacation! Some time away alone, with our spouse, or with the family can provide some much needed time for reconnecting with God, our spouse, or our kids. Vacations should also provide some opportunity to recharge our emotional, mental, and physical batteries. Thus, if we are able to travel, may we vacation in a way that brings honor to our God! Below are some suggestions to make the most out of your vacation!
1. Prioritize quality time:
Even though your daily routine might experience a shake up while away, make sure that you still make your time with Jesus a priority. Depending on where you are staying your time spent with your Creator might be against the backdrop of a sunrise or sunset over the ocean waters, looking out at snow caped mountains, or just being in the presence of the family that God has blessed you with, without the pressures of the normal weekly routine.
Make sure that you prioritize spending quality time with your spouse and family during your vacation. This means setting aside time for activities that everyone can enjoy and making an effort to connect with each other. This may even require you doing something that you don’t necessarily enjoy in order to do something that another family enjoys. You might also need to create some space to give your spouse some time for themselves. Also look for ways to serve one another as a couple while away in ways that are meaningful to your significant other, remember, this is love in action (Philippians 2:3-4).
2. Be patient and forgiving:
Remember that family vacations can be stressful at times. Heavy traffic, car troubles, missing turns, forgetting things, and unplanned expenses that stretch the budget can arise. On our last trip to the beach, I drove all the way there only to realize that I didn’t have my driver’s license to check into the hotel. Fortunately, Steph was gracious and we were able to resolve our lodging issue with her license and debit card. It’s important to be patient and forgiving with each other. Practice humility and grace as you navigate any challenges that arise. (Proverbs 15:1; Ephesians 4:31-32)
3. Practice gratitude:
Cultivate a spirit of gratitude and thankfulness for the opportunity to spend time with your family and create lasting memories together. Growing up, my parents would always say a prayer before we traveled. Of course, we would pray for safe travels but also thank the Lord for allowing us the opportunity to get away with one another and to enjoy part of His creation (i.e. the mountains, beach, etc.). When we took my mother-in-law to the beach during the spring the kids would say “Thank you” in various ways to me throughout the trip. I’d tell them that they were welcome but that needed to make sure and thank there mom as well. We were able to make the three day trip because of her sacrifice in pursuing her education and career as a teacher during the past year. Both Steph and me make sure that we also let our kids know that the Lord has provided the means for us to go through supplying us with jobs, health to work, and a price that fit within our budget. If you’re married, make sure to their one another for the hard work and sacrifices each has made to make getting away a reality. (Psalm 50:14; Ephesians 5:4, 20; Colossians 3:17)
4. Set healthy boundaries:
Set clear boundaries for your vacation, including time for rest and relaxation, as well as time for activities and exploration. Turn off your devices for certain parts of the day and share meals together. You might even decide to make it a device free trip for your kids or even all together if possible. It’s amazing how we will interact with one another when we are unable to interact with a device. Make sure that everyone is on the same page and respects each other’s boundaries.
5. Seek God’s guidance:
Pray for God’s guidance and wisdom as you plan and enjoy your vacation. Ask Him to help you make the most of your time together and to create a spirit of unity and love within your family. This might sound odd, pray for wisdom in planning our vacation, surely I can handle this one. Yet, may we not forget that God cares more deeply about us, our marriage, and our families then we do and He also knows what we and each member of our family really needs during our time away. Even in planning our vacation we would be wise to pray Proverbs 3:5-6 for setting our itinerary.
Remember that vacations can be a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds. By prioritizing quality time, practicing patience and forgiveness, and seeking God’s guidance, you can make the most of your family vacation.
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