A Christmas Message of Hope and Renewal

During this Christmas season, we often find ourselves reflecting on how to maintain a merry heart amidst adversity. How can we find joy when those closest to us—our spouse, friends, family, and acquaintances—seem to drive us crazy? How do we keep a cheerful countenance when faced with the loss of a job or the burden of being the sole provider? In times of sorrow, whether from the end of a relationship, a marriage, or the passing of a loved one, where do we turn for comfort?

These are questions I have faced in my own life, and they are never easy. Many years ago, I was confronted with a significant dilemma. We were on the brink of losing everything: our business, our reputation, our friends, our home, and all our investments. At that time, I was involved in the occult and money was my god. When the Lord began calling me back to Him, He allowed circumstances to unfold that caught my attention. However, I was stubborn, and my husband—who was not a Christian—was even more so. Our business was failing, and nothing could prevent it.

In desperation, I sat in my living room listening to the ocean and began speaking aloud to God. I asked Him to reveal Himself to me—not just any god, but the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Despite my past experiences with tarot cards and spirits, I had never truly known Him. As I opened my heart to God and expressed my feelings—including my struggle to forgive Him—a peace entered me. I cried out for acknowledgment and heard a gentle voice within urging me to read Matthew 6:28.

I searched for the Bible my stepmother had given me and finally found it. With trembling hands and tears in my eyes, I opened it to Matthew 6:28-33. The words spoke directly to me: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” This revelation filled me with fear as I realized how far I had fallen. Yet it also brought clarity.

That night was challenging as I faced spiritual torment. However, through God's grace and guidance by the Holy Spirit, I broke free from the occult. Since 2004, I have been in Christ.

Today, when facing daily struggles and attacks, I remember where God has brought me from. Reflecting on this transformation fills me with joy and dissipates my sorrows. Proverbs 15:13 reminds us that “A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance.” Achieving this merry heart is possible through renewing our minds and hearts in Christ.

We all face battles in life that can overwhelm us if we rely solely on our own strength. Whatever you are struggling with today can be given to Christ by asking the Holy Spirit for guidance. This world offers little of true value if we lose our souls in pursuit of it.

Despite losing everything materially, my husband gave his life to Christ and was baptized on April 19, 2014. What an amazing God we serve!

This Christmas season, remember that you are not alone. Choose today whom you will serve and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead in your life through Christ.

May you find peace and joy this Christmas as you open your heart to His love.

Merry Christmas!