Managing Holiday Stress: A Faith-Based Approach for Law Enforcement Families
December 19, 2025 | Chaplain Dr. Kevin Lamb, Thomas County Sheriff's Office
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." - John 14:27
The holidays can feel like an obstacle course for law enforcement families. Between irregular schedules, financial pressures, and family expectations, what should be a season of joy often becomes a marathon of stress. You're not alone in feeling overwhelmed.
Common Holiday Stressors for Police Families
Financial Pressure: Holiday expenses hit hard when you're already stretching a public service salary. Gift expectations, travel costs, and special meals add up quickly.
Schedule Chaos: Christmas dinner at 2 PM? Maybe, but not likely! Family traditions get disrupted when crime doesn't take holidays.
Extended Family Dynamics: Relatives who don't understand the demands of law enforcement may criticize missed gatherings or make insensitive comments about your profession.
Emotional Exhaustion: You've spent all day managing other people's crises, coming home to family expectations can feel overwhelming.
Biblical Principles for Holiday Peace
Contentment Over Comparison: "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances" (Philippians 4:11). Your family's Christmas doesn't need to look like social media posts or match your childhood memories.
Present Over Perfect: Martha stressed about preparations while Mary chose presence (Luke 10:38-42). Focus on being together rather than creating perfect moments.
Grace Over Guilt: "My grace is sufficient for you" (2 Corinthians 12:9). You can't be everywhere or do everything—and that's okay.
Faith-Based Stress Management Techniques
1. Start with Prayer, Not Panic Begin each day with 5 minutes asking God for wisdom and peace. When stress rises, return to this anchor: "God, help me focus on what matters most today."
2. Practice Gratitude Actively Keep a family gratitude jar throughout December. Write down one blessing daily, even small ones. Read them together Christmas Eve.
3. Establish New Traditions Create traditions that work with your schedule. Christmas morning pancakes before shift? December movie nights when off duty? Make traditions that fit your family, not the calendar.
4. Set Boundaries with Love It's okay to say, "We can't make it this year, but we love you." Explain your schedule constraints kindly but firmly.
5. Simplify Celebrations Focus on presence over presents. Homemade gifts, simple meals, and quality time often mean more than expensive productions.
Chaplaincy Program Resources
Crisis Counseling: Available 24/7 for immediate emotional support
Financial Counseling: Referrals to Christian financial advisors who understand law enforcement income
Pastoral Care: Home visits, marriage counseling, and spiritual guidance
Remember This Truth
The first Christmas happened in chaos: census demands, travel stress, no available lodging, and family displacement. Yet God brought perfect peace into imperfect circumstances.
Your holiday doesn't need to be perfect to be meaningful. Your family doesn't need elaborate traditions to experience love. Your Christmas simply needs to be yours.
Take a deep breath. God's got this. You've got this. And we've got your back.
Need support this holiday season? Contact me at 229.200.3346 or through dispatch. As always, all conversations are confidential.
Chaplain Dr. Kevin Lamb
Thomas County Sheriff's Office
