How did Christmas go from God giving us His best gift, to people trying to give gifts they can’t afford to impress others?
The flesh likes to turn the focus from God doing the work, to self doing the work. Don’t give beyond your ability out of guilt or pressure. Use wisdom!
“A survey of 2,000 people conducted by Yelp and commissioned by OnePoll found that 28% had gone into debt during the festive season.
The average American planned to spend $972 (£750) on Christmas, but many overspent, with the average person exceeding their budget by $489 (£377).”
God doesn’t want us going into debt by overspending on Christmas gifts. He wants us to focus on receiving and remembering the gift that He has freely given to us: Jesus Christ our Lord.
Another thing is that stress during holiday seasons is a very real problem. Some people are so busy trying to make it all perfect for everyone, that their own stress causes their mood to become so foul and snappy.
Their stress causes the opposite effect which they intended out of goodheartedness.
Remember Martha? Martha was sincerely trying to serve the Lord Jesus whom she loved and respected, but she was so burnt-out from serving by her own strength that she ended up lashing out at both Jesus and Mary.
“As they went on their way, he entered into a certain village, and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. She had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she came up to him, and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister left me to serve alone? Ask her therefore to help me.” Jesus answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken away from her.”” (Luke 10:38-42 WEB)
Before diving into the busi-ness of Christmas preparations and festivities, make it a point to first sit at Jesus’ feet—read a morning devotional, sing along to worship songs, listen to a sermon—and focus on receiving His supply of Grace.
When you’re Christ-centered, you won’t be defeated by the numerous demands of the season.
Mary had things to do too, but she chose to do the first things first. Afterwards, she could do her tasks with an inward peace and rest.
Now go and enjoy your Christmas celebrations—Jesus is with you to help you enjoy this season to the fullest! Have a very merry Christmas!
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songs about giving and receiving 在 Cool words, Kindness quotes, Nonviolent communication 的美食出口停車場
Apr 3, 2016 - Given To - A song about giving and receiving by Ruth Bebermeyer. ... <看更多>