What do we do when a season that should be full of joy is marked by inner turmoil and loneliness? Pray to the God who is "with you always."
It’s Christmas and you are not alone!
The holiday season is known for joyous celebrations with family and friends. But it can also be a time of heightened loneliness, when in contrast to the season’s joyful message, we find ourselves focusing on our own personal turmoil and not so joyful trials.
Joseph was in turmoil as he pondered the ramifications of that first Christmas. He wasn’t sure what it all meant and wasn’t fully aware of all that God had in store.
Then God sent an angel with a message for Joseph - a message that also speaks to us:
Mary your wife will bring forth a son, and you will name him Jesus, and he will save his people from their sin. Matt 1:20-21
According to the Bible, this angelic message fulfilled an ancient biblical prophecy:
A virgin will bear a child and bring forth a son, and they shall call him “Emmanuel” which means, “God with us.” Matt 1:23
The Bible teaches that this world is infected with sin, and sin is at the root of all our struggles. God promised that Jesus will save His people from sin and from all of its destructive ramifications. And through Jesus, God is with us - Jesus is our “Emmanuel.” So there is never a reason to feel alone; not this Christmas and not ever. Jesus said, “I am with you always,” and that is a promise we can count on!
Let's Pray
Not sure where to start? Here's a simple prayer to help you reach out and accept God's promise to you.
Heavenly Father, Thank you for this Christmas season and for all that it means for me. Thank you for sending your son Jesus and for his power to save me from the destructive influences of sin. I want a full relationship with Jesus and I want to know and feel that God is always with me. Lead me into that full relationship this Christmas.
Read more about the story of Christmas and the life of Jesus to learn just how much God loves you. Start by reading the Gospel of Luke >