Day 25 – Merry Christmas – Thank you Jesus

How can we focus more on Christ?

Let’s spend the day remembering what this day is all about and thank Him all throughout the day!

Today is the celebration of the birth of Jesus! The purpose of His birth was for you and me! He came to shed His blood on the cross to provide forgiveness of our sins. That is why we celebrate!

Today we will get caught up in the presents, the food, and for some of us rushing around to see all the family. But let’s take time today to pause and thank Jesus for loving us. Let’s thank Him for being with us wherever we go. Let’s thank Him for the pain He endured to save us.

May you and your family have a blessed day.

Thank you, Jesus, for saving us! We love you!

Day 24 – Peace & Presence

How can we focus more on Christ?

The holidays are a time for family and friends. Our community of family and friends were chosen by God. He put people in our path that have become our friends and He allowed us to be born, married, or adopted into particular families. We are built for community.

Some people look forward to time with family and others may dread it due to loss, pain, or family differences. There are many different emotions that come up during this time.

Whatever emotions we are feeling this holiday, lean on Christ. Go to Him in prayer and ask for a joyous celebration, peace in conflict, and strength to handle whatever the day ahead holds.

Ask God how to be present in these times. Some family time may be busy and chaotic, but take time to look your family and friends in the eyes and have good meaningful conversation.

Whether you are excited or distressed over this holiday season, take some deep breaths, and go enjoy the community you were given.

Merry Christmas Eve!

Day 23 – Have Joy

How can we focus on Christ?

Let’s talk Happiness vs Joy

Happiness – The external state of being happy. Happiness is dependent on the circumstances, thoughts, people around us. It’s the events in our path that give us happiness.

Joy – A feeling of great pleasure and happiness. A long-lasting state. Joy is promised by God to those who put their trust in Him.

Happiness can come and go, but Joy is in our heart. It’s the thing that can’t be taken away when we accept the Joy that God gives us.

How can we have Joy in our hearts? Trust God! Have faith! Be obedient! Let’s seek Him! Let’s pray God will show us this wonderful Joy that He has for us.

Philippians 4:4

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

John 15:11

I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.

Nehemiah 8:10

And Nehemiah[a] continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!”

“In the English Standard Version of the Bible, the words “joy,” “rejoice,” or “joyful” appear a total of 430 times, compared with “happy” or “happiness,” which appear only ten times. Joy is lasting, and it satisfies the heart in a unique and marvelous way. Joy is characteristic of God's people, found in his presence.” – openthebible.org