While the Bible doesn’t directly address modern holidays, it speaks to the importance of rest, celebration, and honoring God in all that we do. Whether it’s a feast or a time of remembrance, God desires that we celebrate in ways that bring glory to Him.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About second chances
What Does The Bible Say About holidays
Deuteronomy 16:16
“Three times a year all your men must appear before the Lord your God at the place he will choose: at the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the Festival of Weeks, and the Festival of Tabernacles. No one should appear before the Lord empty-handed.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of gathering together as a community to celebrate and worship God during specific festivals. It highlights the significance of these holy days and encourages believers to come before the Lord with offerings and gratitude.
As Christians, holidays provide us with opportunities to reflect on the goodness of God and celebrate His faithfulness. It is important for us to commemorate these special occasions, not just as mere rituals, but as moments to deepen our relationship with God and express our thankfulness for His blessings.
Psalm 118:24
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
This verse reminds us that each day is a gift from God, and we should approach it with joy and gratitude. Holidays serve as reminders of the special days set apart for celebration and thanksgiving, allowing us to rejoice in God’s goodness and faithfulness.
Therefore, as we observe holidays, let us remember to rejoice and be glad in the opportunities they bring to draw closer to God, to express our gratitude, and to celebrate the blessings we have received.
Colossians 2:16-17
“Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration, or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.”
This passage reminds us that while holidays and religious festivals hold significance, our faith in Christ is not dependent on observing them strictly. They serve as shadows or representations of the ultimate reality found in Jesus.
As we celebrate holidays, let us remember that our true focus should be on the person of Jesus, who is the fulfillment of all things. We should use these occasions to deepen our relationship with Him and to honor Him with our hearts and actions, rather than getting caught up in legalistic judgments regarding their observances.
Exodus 12:14
“This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord—a lasting ordinance.”
In this verse, God commands the Israelites to observe the Passover as a festival and a lasting ordinance. It highlights the importance of remembering and celebrating significant events in our spiritual history.
Holidays provide us with an opportunity to commemorate important milestones and events in our faith journey. They serve as markers of God’s faithfulness and provide us with an avenue to pass down our traditions and stories to future generations. As we celebrate these holidays, let us reflect on God’s faithfulness in our lives and strengthen our resolve to follow Him.
1 Corinthians 5:8
“Therefore let us keep the Festival, not with the old bread leavened with malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”
This verse encourages believers to approach the observation of holidays with sincerity and truth. It emphasizes the importance of having a genuine heart and inner transformation rather than merely going through the motions or participating in rituals.
During holidays, it is essential to examine our motives and attitudes. Let us embrace the spirit of love, forgiveness, and truth, and let our celebrations be expressions of our heartfelt devotion to God and our desire to honor Him.
Leviticus 23:2
“Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘These are my appointed festivals, the appointed festivals of the Lord, which you are to proclaim as sacred assemblies.”
This verse highlights that holidays and sacred assemblies are part of God’s design for His people. It emphasizes the significance of coming together as a community to celebrate and worship God.
As we observe holidays, let us remember the importance of gathering with fellow believers to worship, encourage one another, and grow in our faith. Let us cherish the community we have in Christ and embrace the opportunities holidays provide for fellowship and spiritual growth.
Galatians 4:9-10
“But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable forces? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again? You are observing special days and months and seasons and years!”
This passage speaks to the Galatians about their tendency to rely on religious observances as a means of salvation or spirituality. It challenges the notion that participating in certain holidays or following specific religious practices can make us more acceptable to God.
As Christians, our relationship with God is not based on our adherence to specific holidays or practices but on our faith in Christ. While holidays hold significance, let us ensure that we do not put our hope or identity in them but in the saving grace of Jesus. Let us approach holidays with a heart of worship and a desire to grow in our love for God and others.
Acts 2:1
“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.”
This verse sets the stage for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. It underscores the importance of believers coming together in unity and expectation on special occasions.
As we celebrate holidays, let us remember the power of unity and togetherness. Let us gather as the body of Christ, filled with anticipation for what God will do in our midst. May our celebrations be marked by unity, love, and a deepening of our connection with God and one another.
Leviticus 23:4
“These are the Lord’s appointed festivals, the sacred assemblies you are to proclaim at their appointed times.”
This verse provides a reminder of the importance of observing holidays and sacred assemblies according to God’s appointed times. It denotes the significance of aligning our celebrations with God’s ordained calendar.
As we participate in holidays, let us be mindful of the sacredness of these appointed times and the significance they hold in God’s plan. Let us honor His timings and seek His guidance on how to commemorate these special occasions in ways that are pleasing to Him.
1 Corinthians 5:7
“Get rid of the old yeast, so that you may be a new unleavened batch—as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.”
This verse encourages believers to rid themselves of sin and embrace a renewed life in Christ. It draws a parallel between the removal of yeast during the Passover feast and the need for believers to live lives free from the contamination of sin.
During holidays, let us take time to reflect on our spiritual journey and the areas of our lives that need cleansing and transformation. Let us allow the sacrifice of Jesus, our Passover lamb, to purify and renew us, enabling us to live in righteousness and holiness.
Isaiah 1:13-14
“Stop bringing meaningless offerings! Your incense is detestable to me. New Moons, Sabbaths, and convocations— I cannot bear your worthless assemblies. Your New Moon feasts and your appointed festivals I hate with all my being. They have become a burden to me; I am weary of bearing them.”
In this passage, God rebukes the Israelites for their hypocritical observance of holidays and festivals. He declares that their rituals have become empty and burdensome because their hearts are far from Him.
As we approach holidays, let us guard against merely going through the motions without genuine faith and devotion. Let us ensure that our hearts are aligned with God’s will and that we approach these special times with sincerity, worshiping Him in spirit and truth.
Galatians 4:10
“You are observing special days and months and seasons and years!”
In this verse, Paul addresses the Galatians’ inclination to observe special days and seasons as a means of salvation or spiritual fulfillment. He challenges their reliance on external practices rather than the transforming power of the Gospel.
As Christians, our faith is centered on the finished work of Jesus on the cross, not on the observance of specific holidays or seasons. Let us remember that our relationship with God is based on grace through faith, not on our ability to keep religious traditions. May our celebrations be marked by the joy and freedom found in Christ.
Romans 14:5-6
“One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.”
This passage addresses the diversity of beliefs and practices among Christians regarding the observance of certain days. It emphasizes that each person should follow their convictions and honor God in their choices.
As we celebrate holidays, let us respect and appreciate the various perspectives and traditions among believers. Whether we observe certain days as more significant or not, let us do so with a heart of gratitude and reverence for the Lord. May our diversity become an opportunity for unity and mutual respect.
Matthew 26:17-19
“On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?’ He replied, ‘Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.’ So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.”
This passage provides a glimpse into how Jesus and His disciples observed the Passover festival. It demonstrates their obedience to the customs and traditions associated with this significant holiday.
Holidays offer us an opportunity to follow the example of Jesus and His disciples, to participate in the celebrations that hold deep spiritual meaning. As we engage in these observances, let us do so with a heart of reverence, seeking to understand the symbolism and significance behind each tradition.
John 7:2-3
“But when the Jewish Festival of Tabernacles was near, Jesus’ brothers said to him, ‘Leave Galilee and go to Judea, so that your disciples there may see the works you do.”
This passage refers to the Jewish Festival of Tabernacles and highlights the significance of this sacred holiday. It showcases Jesus’ presence and actions during this festive time.
As we celebrate holidays, let us be mindful of the opportunities they provide for spiritual encounters and divine revelation. Let us seek moments of encounter with God and demonstrate His love through acts of service and works of kindness toward others, just as Jesus did.
Joshua 3:5
“Joshua told the people, ‘Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.'”
In this verse, Joshua instructs the Israelites to consecrate themselves before crossing the Jordan River, as they were about to witness a mighty work of God. It highlights the importance of preparing our hearts before significant events or holidays.
As we anticipate holidays, let us take time to consecrate ourselves, seeking God’s presence and guidance. Let us prepare our hearts to receive His blessings and be open to the amazing things He desires to do in our lives during these special times.
2 Chronicles 30:21
“The Israelites who were present in Jerusalem celebrated the Festival of Unleavened Bread for seven days with great rejoicing, while the Levites and priests praised the Lord every day with resounding instruments dedicated to the Lord.”
This verse describes the exuberant celebration of the Festival of Unleavened Bread in Jerusalem. It portrays the joy and worship that accompanied this important holiday.
As we commemorate holidays, let us emulate the joy and passion displayed by the Israelites. Let us engage in exuberant worship, heartfelt praise, and a spirit of celebration. May our celebrations be marked by genuine expressions of love and devotion to God, inspiring others to draw near to Him.
Nehemiah 8:10
“Nehemiah said, ‘Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.'”
In this verse, Nehemiah encourages the people to rejoice and celebrate during a holy day. He emphasizes the importance of sharing with those in need and finds strength in the joy of the Lord.
As we observe holidays, let us remember to extend kindness and generosity to others, especially those who may be alone or in need. Let us find strength in the joy of the Lord, allowing it to sustain us during times of celebration and in our everyday lives.
Romans 14:17
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
In this verse, Paul highlights that the Kingdom of God is not centered around external practices or observances, but on righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
As we engage in holiday celebrations, let us remember that our focus should be on cultivating righteousness in our lives, seeking peace with God and others, and experiencing the joy that comes from the presence of the Holy Spirit. Let us strive to manifest the values and characteristics of the Kingdom of God in these special moments.
1 Peter 1:8-9
“Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”
This passage speaks to the joy and hope that believers experience through their faith in Jesus, even though they have never seen Him directly.
As we celebrate holidays, let us be reminded of the inexpressible joy and hope that come from knowing Christ. Let our celebrations be marked by a deep gratitude for the salvation of our souls and a renewed commitment to live for Him.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This verse reminds us that every aspect of our lives, including our celebrations and observance of holidays, should be done to bring glory to God.
As we engage in holiday festivities, let us do so with a mindset of honoring and glorifying God in all we do. May our actions, words, and attitudes reflect His love, grace, and goodness, pointing others to the One who is worthy of all praise and worship.