As I’m sitting here writing, I’m watching the snow quietly fall outside my window. I can’t describe why, but for some reason, snow has brought me a sense of focus and joy during this Christmas season. Though, I can’t say it has always been this way. I can remember many Decembers where it was difficult for me to find joy. It was easy to get stuck in the programming behind Christmas. Christmas parties, shopping, presents, and much more would create barriers or blinders to the real joy that I could have been experiencing while dwelling on the birth of Jesus. Below I have listed three things that have helped me to cultivate joy during the Christmas season.

1. Change Your Perspective

Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Sometimes, in order to find joy, we just need to renew our minds and change our mindsets. We can get stuck in these ruts where we become complainers of how life is going, especially in the midst of the Christmas Season… “Why do I have to go to two Christmas parties on the same night, oh great, ALL the cookies are burnt, and why on earth is this line at Target so long.” Sure, those may seem a little silly, but we’ve (almost) all been there, right?  So here’s my solution, rather than complain, we can do something to make a change! Simply make the choice to choose joy. One of the biggest things I needed in my time of failing to find joy was simply a change in my own mindset.

2. Setting Your Eyes on the Ultimate Gift

Luke 2:10-11 “But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”

Christmas is a wonderful time to remember why we should be joyful and to focus on the reason we celebrate. God chose Mary to birth a son who would save us from our sins. He gave us the greatest gift ever known to man. Jesus! Because of Jesus’ birth, everything changed, and we don’t have to live in darkness.This is something to be joyful about!

3. Investing in Others.

1 John 4:11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

Loneliness can be a thief of joy during the holiday season. When we are struggling to live with joy, it is easy to isolate ourselves from others. But, we were literally created to love and be in relationship with one another! Instead of pulling away, look for companionship in your family and friends. Here are some easy ways you can do just that:

•         Host a cookie exchange
•         Host a Christmas movie night
•         Volunteer at a place of your choice to give back
•         Invite someone over for dinner

 

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Zachary Nelson

Kristy is the Assistant Director of Children's Ministries. Her main role is to lead the JAM teams to develop children into followers of Christ from an early age. She helps by providing multiple ways for children to learn and participate in engaging activities.

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