At this time of year, it is tempting to buy into the myth that everybody else is enjoying a picture-perfect Christmas. The truth is, there are thousands out there whose lives have been forever altered by death, fire disaster, loss, divorce, sickness and financial problems. Some are spending the Christmas on their hospital beds. News of divorce and separations have filled the media especially among celebrities. Others have been killed by the bullets of those who were supposed to protect them while others have died in various accidents in the last 48 hours.
The economic situation in the country gives a glimmer of hope. The situation has become more worrisome for young families who are low-income earners. The usual shopping for Christmas dwindled due to lack of funds. Some Children had to celebrate the Christmas without the gifts that follow the season or even the ceremonial new clothes. Promises made were not kept nor fulfilled. Expectations were no where met.
But in all these, a great understanding should be reached: life is a battleground, not a playground and it is only those who fight the battles that can win. The enemy uses many things as battles to fight people’s lives and destinies. Temptation is the attempt of the enemy to drag you into iniquity, compromise, regrettable situations and take your eyes off your focus in order to ruin your life. So, do not allow the difficulties of the moment pull you into regrettable situations that you will regret. Christmas celebrations will come and go but family and loved ones will remain forever. Therefore, treasure that the people you love most are by your side this season.
As we exchange our gifts, let us remember that they are symbolic of the unspeakable gift of God’s love. We should quietly give simple little gifts that are expressions of our love and devotion to the recipients. These gifts become symbolic of the gift of God’s love. The quality of man’s strength does not always depend on the level of inner courage he musters, but on the personality from whom such strength is derived. Though natural strength has its normal abating state, the reality is that when we draw our strength from the Almighty, we have the ability to keep going through constant inner renewal by Him.
There are days and times that weariness and fainting come due to life and serial challenges. During these times, we need renewal for the inner man to be nurtured and fortified. We must also learn to wait on the Lord. It is the secret place of prayer and meditation on God’s unfailing words that we feed the inner man to be constantly renewed and strengthened. If you’re having a tough Christmas, don’t beat yourself up. Remember, you can get through anything for one day. “… and as thy days, so shall thy strength be.” (Deuteronomy 33:25) Jesus understands! He came to ‘heal the heartbroken’ (Isaiah 61:1MSG). So, more than ever turn to Him this yuletide and ask Him to restore your peace.
Written by WILFRED OBIOTIKA
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