I love the idea of a Christmas daily devotional. It feels like a wonderful way to really celebrate and embrace the season and it's true meaning. The saying "Jesus is the reason for the season" always rings true- even when we sometimes forget. I often forget myself- more than I'd like. Every year I look forward to the holidays and the feelings of joy and nostalgic it brings, however stress, anxiety and impatience never seem too far away. Things like busy schedules, timelines, family events and gift shopping can cause tensions to run high. The pressures of the world can weigh on all of us, in our own individual ways.
My answer for times like these is to focus more on God and how I can better myself. Making time for the things that bring me joy also seems to help. This could be watching my favorite comfort show, enjoying a tasty meal or diving deeper into my Bible to ground myself. The world is noisy, y'all. I've definitely noticed that what I focus on and give my attention to can drastically affect my mental headspace. On the flip side, I often think about and find comfort in the idea that God presents us with challenges and adversities so that we have to come closer to Him. I think that's true. I don't like that I'm more "encouraged" to spend more time with Him when things aren't going how I want them to versus when they are, however it makes sense.
Now that we're in the heart of the holidays, I think I would really enjoy reading through a Christmas devotional everyday in December. Something festive to remind me of Jesus, the true meaning of Christmas and just keep my spirits bright! I've been searching for one to purchase and so far, these are my top picks. I'm also thinking about buying some for Christmas gifts as well- I think that would make a really special gift.
You can read the synopsis + shop each one by clicking on the title below:
The Gifts of Jesus: Meditations for Christmas by Charles F. Stanley
Jesus Listens For Advent & Christmas: Prayers for the Season by Sarah Young
Bring On The Merry: 25 Days of Great Joy for Christmas by Candace Cameron Bure
The 25 Days of Christmas: A Family Devotional to Help You Celebrate Jesus by James Merritt
I'll also link everything in my Amazon Storefront here if you want to shop :) Let me know if you have read any of these or any other Christmas devotionals you think I would enjoy!
