Alive and Active Life

When you were a little kid, did you ever dress up or pretend? Maybe you “borrowed” your mom or dad’s clothes, feeling grown-up as their apparel hung bulkily on your small frame. Perhaps you confiscated a large bath towel to be your super hero cape. What about adapting odds-n-ends laying around to dress up like community professionals – firemen, policemen, doctors, scientists, store clerks, movie stars, prince(ess), etc.? But have you ever dressed up to get better at being you?

Let’s explore this fascinating idea – getting better at being you. It’s a healthy way to live.

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Do you remember that funny scene in Shrek? The donkey is behind a group of people in a crowd. Shrek is going to choose a companion. And as Shrek considers his options, all you see is the donkey jumping up – over and over in the background. You don’t see him – and then you do! Over and over. As he jumps high enough to be seen above the group, he’s yelling something – “Pick me! Pick me! Pick me!” Interestingly, all people feel this way at times. Subsequently, it’s noteworthy and meaningful to remember God purposefully picks you.

So what does “Pick me!” really look like?

We just finished a series in December that focused on how to prepare your heart for Christmas. Then we explored approaching a New Year with hope. Yet, even after those focuses, it’s easy to feel vulnerable when faith hangs by a thread as you look into the future.

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If ever there was an Old Testament story that beautifully exemplifies the Spirit of Jesus, this is it! Not only does it show a man’s healthy choices and conduct. It also portrays the very spirit of Jesus Christ in a person who lived long before Jesus came to earth as the God-man. And further, this story is a strong statement – you and I can ask for a double portion of the nature and character of Christ if we fully surrender to God.

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If ever there was an Old Testament story that beautifully exemplifies the Spirit of Jesus, this is it! Not only does it show a man’s healthy choices and conduct. It also portrays the very spirit of Jesus Christ in a person who lived long before Jesus came to earth as the God-man. And further, this story is a strong statement – you and I can ask for a double portion of the nature and character of Christ if we fully surrender to God.

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We just came through one of the most special seasons of the year. So many people love these weeks of holidays despite added stresses and responsibilities. Truly, it’s a treasured time each year: Fall Celebrations, Thanksgiving, Christmas – and now New Year’s Day has come. A favorite theme during Christmas from the carol – “God Rest You Merry Gentlemen” is the phrase – “comfort and joy.” If you’re like me and millions of others, you’d welcome some comfort and joy – in your life and around the world.

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A New Year is an opportunity to let go of some things, hold onto other things, and grab onto new things. It also involves various emotions. Even though a New Year can feel scary, not knowing what’s ahead, it can also be exciting with new opportunities. In some cases, it may be a relief to walk into a fresh perspective. Hope for new possibilities begins to rise. Sadness about aging, saying good-byes, or letting go of previous endeavors can be painful. Knowing there will be difficult challenges is sobering. Yet, overall, most people embrace hope as one year morphs into another. God gives hope for a New Year.

I’ve found hope looks one way in this broken world – but completely different in God’s reality. Incidentally, it makes all the difference to know which hope is which.

How does a typical dictionary define hope?

I suggest these definitions are strongly related to the world’s view of hope. God’s definition is different. The third definition above is closest to God’s definition. But it lacks the fullness and promise God offers His people. To get a better look at God’s kind of hope, let’s look into some Scriptures.

I want to share one of my personal favorite verses. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jer. 29:11) Many people hold onto this verse.

Since God already knows –

– and because He is good with good plans – I can trust Him.

Now, “good” also has a different definition in God’s reality than the world’s definition. Subsequently, God is – in every way – morally excellent. Additionally, He is kind and loving with highest of virtues. So this is where you drive a stake of faith into life.

The Lord wants to prosper you into His purpose for your life. He does not want to harm you. And He plans to give you hope in your soul. His eye is on your future. And He cares very much about what is going on in your heart.

Incidentally, one day, I realized that two verses I’d memorized were actually back-to-back in the Bible. Here’s the verse following Jer. 29:11.

“Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.” (Jer. 29: 12)

Then, to my surprise, I found yet a third verse I’d memorized also connected to these first two verses. “You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.” (Jer. 29: 13)

Because God cares and is everything He claims – we have reason to celebrate Christmas and Thanksgiving each year. Consequently, the person who chooses to believe this even when their heart is breaking – they receive God’s help. Ps. 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

God makes it His business to love and tenderly care for the “brokenhearted and crushed in spirit.” Interestingly, He is impeccable at triaging your troubles. And “you” are His priority! All this because He loves you deeply and wants to help. Amazingly, God cares about holiday sadness, too. And He has credibility to teach about managing sadness. Here’s why.

Jesus has two names that are linked, but almost like opposites. “Man of Joy” and “Man of Sorrow.” You can imagine how joyfully He spoke everything into existence at creation. From the clear blue ocean, to flowering green meadows, to towering majestic mountains, to powerful, bounding animals, to delicate, transparent blossoms – and even a flavor-packed, juicy strawberry.

But then consider how filled with sorrow He must be as He sees the devastating effects on His once perfect creation and His own dear children trapped in sin. Jesus knows how to live with the tension of both joy and sorrow.

When Jesus lived on this earth, He was ever-present in the celebration of life while simultaneously participating in human sorrow. Consequently, He joined the human condition by becoming one of us. Jesus was born into the human race and experienced the full spectrum of our joys and sorrows. He was even tempted in every way we are – but without sin. (Heb. 4:15)

Yes, Jesus became a baby! And that’s why we celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas . . . because God is faithful!

Interestingly, this present moment, a chain link is forming that ties your past to your future. What you think, say, and do each moment matters. Since you hold both ends of your life together in your middle, a thoughtful, courageous approach helps you make healthy choices.

Let’s explore six action steps to move you steadily into daily success this new year.

I know I say this so often. Spending daily time in Scripture makes a big difference. The Written Word affects your life powerfully because it’s the Living Word, Jesus Christ, on paper. This investment of time and space each day brings results:

Regular time in God’s Word helps you live inside Jer. 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Be close in your heart to God at all times by simple faith. Talk to the Lord through your day – about your problems, fears, sadness, joys, plans, needs . . . everything! Set apart Jesus as Lord in your heart. (1 Pet. 3:15) Enjoy His friendship. (Jn. 15:15) Worship Him.

Regular, sincere prayer draws you close to God. Then Jer. 29:12 becomes your reality. “Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.”

You have control over your disposition. No matter how hard things become, choose cheer over anxiety, anger, or pouting. When you suffer, especially unjustly, remain conscious of God’s presence and sovereignty over your situation. Cheer is good medicine.

Prov. 17:22 promises hope through practicing cheer. “A cheerful heart is good medicine.”

What you practice is what you become. So, examine your habits and patterns carefully.

How healthy are your patterns?

Setting up structured yet flexible patterns helps you develop healthy habits.

There are many resources to help set good goals. And incidentally, thoughtfully written goals and objectives help you carry out action steps to grow personally and professionally.

To set up a simple One-Page Goals Sheet, go to our website for a helpful tool that keeps you on track all year. I encourage you to use this tool to set up reasonable, practical goals for this next year. Just put in the search bar – “One-Page Goals Sheet.” You will see Step One and Step Two. This material helps you set up and carry out simple goals in your life.

Reasonable goals and thoughtful objectives help you live a healthy life all year.

Many people live their lives as half a person . . . or less. Subsequently, being a whole person means pursuing a variety of relationships, experiences, practices, interests, investments (not necessarily financial), and habits. A whole person appreciates the sciences, various forms of art, literature and world news, engaging a hobby, gathering with a group, simply enjoying quiet time alone. All these, and many more, help you be a more balanced, whole person.

NOTE: Steps 3 – 6 help you be the unique person God created – if you pursue Him with all your heart. “You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.” (Jer. 29: 13)

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

You might be surprised to know Christmas sadness is a real thing. It hits when people go through difficulties that stretch into the season of Christmas. Or it happens with unexpected tragedy or bad news. But Christmas sadness can sometimes appear when everything is going fine. Unexpectedly, something rises up or invades without permission – and surprises you. In fact, you may even wonder why it’s there because there’s no identifiable reason.

Whatever the scenario, you are not alone if you experience Christmas sadness.

Subsequently, the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to learn how to manage Christmas sadness.

Christmas sadness is more common than many realize. Since your life is often filled with difficulties, hurts, losses, and disappointments all through the year – at Christmas, these things can sometimes feel bigger.

Incidentally, there may not even be anything that’s gone wrong as you prepare for Christmas. But the wear and tear of living all year can surface when you least expect it – even when you are hopeful for a holiday of joy, rest, and special times. You live in a broken world, but you instinctively know – “it’s not supposed to be like this.”

The task to manage Christmas sadness becomes overwhelming in the face of a loss. Too often, dreams may have been dashed. Sadly, medical emergencies may invade and drain you of time and energy you hoped to apply differently. Additionally, some people struggle with depression, and that condition is not a respecter of special occasions or good times.

Disappointment creeps in – whatever the situation. Incidentally, this is the time to manage Christmas sadness.

Because of all this, let’s explore some scenarios that can happen – and then some steps to manage Christmas sadness.

Despite your best planning and intentions, life can still hand you lemons. Interestingly, this can feel like a betrayal. Especially when you’ve poured your best out and had a good plan, you expect more than a meager outcome. You want some fairness. And you want good outcomes.

Life is unpredictable. Consequently, there are many times you feel the rug is pulled out from under you. As a result, you feel hurt, sad, disappointed, and maybe even angry.

Christmas becomes a season of mixed emotions when these kinds of things become your reality.

Christmas is supposed to be a wonderful time of rejoicing, celebration, and encouragement. Plus, it’s time to pause, reflect, and enjoy God’s lavish gift of grace, even in this broken world! But – to keep it real – this life is broken!

So, what do you do when things don’t go well? What do you do when you are sad at Christmas?

Steps to manage Christmas sadness are helpful. But perspective also helps. And choices are critical. You do have control over how you manage Christmas sadness. And God promises to walk with you and help with the parts out of your control.

You manage Christmas sadness better with these steps:

“For to us a child is born.

To us a Son is given.

And the government will be on His shoulders.

And He will be called – 

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

(Isaiah 9:6)

This verse is filled with hope and instruction. Let’s explore each phrase.  

Jesus is your first and best Christmas present! The Son of humanity is a gift to help you manage Christmas sadness. Incidentally, He’s a companion in life’s hardships and pain. Jesus is a powerful and kind friend who cares about you. Emmanuel means God With You!

The grown-up Christmas Baby carries God’s government on His shoulders. He has answers to complicated problems. Christ’s shoulders are broad and strong to carry whatever concerns you. Jesus has thoughtful, brilliant solutions. Consequently, He can train you to “govern” your life successfully – even in Christmas sadness.

God names Himself for your needs. His names fit your needs like a glove. Claim His names by faith.

Some Bible translations call Jesus “Extraordinary Strategist” in place of Wonderful Counselor. Imagine having this kind of counselor in struggles, griefs, and disappointments. He’s a guide already in tomorrow to receive you as you enter.

God channels His unlimited power through the portal of your faith. Every problem, loss, sorrow, challenge, and assignment falls within His scope of power. “With man, these things are impossible. But with [Mighty] God, all things are possible.” (Mt. 19:26)

You belong! Your fabulous Dad loves you tenderly. God holds you close when you’re discouraged. He strengthens you when you’re weak. And He steps in with His glorious right arm when you need help with a bully. Your Heavenly Father is extremely good. Job was so convinced about this, he said – “Even if You kill me, I will trust You, God.” (Job 13:15)

This world is full of conflict. Churning, burning, unsettling reality. Subsequently, Jesus promises peace that passes understanding. He offers comfort when you’ve been hurt. He gives rest when you are weary. And He spreads His wings over you.

Come under His wings. “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Ps. 34:18)

Determine how to come through Christmas sadness. Essentially, decide how you will think and what you will do. You have control over what you say and do.

Most important, if you choose hope, you put your precious life directly under God’s care and blessing.

Some sad feelings may remain from serious losses. Always turn to Emmanuel – “God With You.” He loves you so much and knows how to help you move forward.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

You know the little kid in the back seat on a long trip? Every 15 minutes, they ask (with a tired sigh) – “Are we there yet?!” That’s the same little cherub, along with a host of other little kids – and just as many adults – who asks, “Is it Christmas yet?” The first exclamation – “Are we there yet?” – is more like – “Gosh! How much longer?!” An impatience and a feeling of being confined. The second exclamation – “Is it Christmas yet?” – is more like – “I’m so excited, I can hardly wait.” An expression of the joy of anticipation.

Waiting is just HARD! But everybody waits. We wait in line at the gas station. We wait for phone calls, appointments, packages in the mail. For special trips. Birthdays. A long-awaited vacation. We wait to see someone you hardly get to spend time with. And we wait for the rewards of something you worked hard for. But – Christmas waiting – that’s the hardest. Many people just love Christmas.

Here are some special parts of Christmas we wait for:

But there are other very unique kinds of waiting that sometimes happen in the Christmas season – like:

Waiting is just HARD!

What does the joy of anticipation for Christmas look like?

Well, for starters, joy of anticipation is in the face of every excited child as they “dream forward.” It’s in the lifted spirits of a tired career professional excited about a break from daily demands of the office. You see it in the eyes of a dear friend or loved one as they welcome special traditions and preparations. Sometimes, it’s in the smile of a neighbor as they stop by with unexpected goodies to share. And one can even hear joy of anticipation in freshly expressed sentiments of hope from community leaders. Joy of anticipation can be in the grocery clerk who checks you out and wonders what you will make with the supplies you purchase. In fact, anticipation is in the very air – almost everywhere – as we get closer to Christmas.

The joy of anticipation is in so many things people look forward to:

But there’s so much more to the joy of anticipation. Christmas reminds us that all history waited for a Baby to be born. Mary, Jesus’ mother, waited 9 months to birth a baby she unexpectedly, miraculously conceived. God, Himself, waited for centuries for the right timing – to be stuffed into a tiny human child and become the promised sacrifice for sins. And another unique way God waits is by patiently stretching Christ’s return to earth just a bit longer. Why? Because of His deep love for lost people – not wanting anyone to perish. So even God waits.

In all these ways, waiting has something to do with the joy of anticipation.

Waiting is both exciting in some aspects, and uncomfortable in other ways. We spend much of our lives waiting for something. So, maybe we should work at waiting better and making that stretch of time more meaningful.

You can “milk it” of every bit of good. Let’s look at some of the benefits of waiting:

So, focus on blessings as you wait. Even if your stomach is tied in knots with unknowns and responsibilities, focusing on good that’s still around you provides perspective in waiting.

Of course, waiting at Christmas is hard, especially for children. Nevertheless, adults not only anticipate the joy of Christmas. They also instinctively know Christmas ends another year. A New Year approaches to set new goals and practice fresh ways of waiting.

Waiting can teach you how to relax into the person God created you to be. For example, even if you are suffering or going through a very difficult situation – you can practice the joy of Christmas anticipation in quiet, intimate, personal ways:

These “faith anticipations” open a door to joy deep in your heart because of the undeserved opportunity of knowing God as a dear Friend. What a gift from God. Friendship! Christmas is filled with undeserved goodness from God who blesses those who seek His face and wait for Him. Lam. 3:24 says, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him.”

Why not give intentional thought to wait well this Christmas? Why not purposefully wait well for the New Year? Incidentally, you can wait well for Christ’s imminent return to earth. By focusing on your relationship with Jesus – the Christmas Baby who grew up to be Emmanuel (God With You) – you open your heart to receive more of Him and His joy.

Scripture says, “Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides You, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.” (Is. 64:4; 1 Cor. 2:9) So, wait well in every situation. Calm your heart and share moments with Jesus.

Why not let your waiting this Christmas be filled with worship, with intimate fellowship with God, and with periods of rest instead of hustle and bustle that can cheat you out of the joy of anticipation?

Incidentally, you can also purposefully target spending time with friends and loved-ones as you wait. Why not do something unexpected for an unsuspecting person God lays on your heart? That feeds joy of anticipation for you and the person receiving your thoughtfulness.

Sometimes it helps to just step away from too much preparation and simply enjoy. Things don’t have to be perfect. Just wait well.

The joy of anticipation is simple. It quiets your heart and aids your ability to simply be you and receive from God. Incidentally, a quiet spirit can get you through the hustle and bustle you can’t ignore. Focus to wait well.

Why not let go of “too much” Christmas preparation? Simplify your approach to include “much more” of what matters most.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.

Most people really like Christmas. There are a few grinches who despise the annual celebration. But many more cherish this annual holiday. They lean into invisible qualities of hope and joy connected to the evergreen tree, lights and decorations, beautiful music, giving and receiving, special goodies, and moments of reflection. Unfortunately, many of these same “Christmas-loving” people feel overwhelmed at the hustle and bustle. So, how do you prepare your heart for this beloved holiday?

For more information about Advent, check out last week’s article – “Prepare For Christmas With Advent.” In a nutshell, an advent ushers in the arrival of a remarkable person or event – in this case, Baby Jesus and His birth. Advent is a time to prepare for that notable arrival and celebration.

This is the first in a series to help prepare your heart for Christmas. Each week we’ll light another candle in our hearts to get ready. And each article’s content will be practical and inspirational.

Because Christmas has become highly commercialized, it takes skill and thought to prepare your heart. As you participate in the hustle and bustle, you don’t want to lose the meaning of Christmas. Each year, I write about Advent and Christmas. So, this content provides helpful tips to make Christmas as rich and meaningful as possible. Incidentally, Christmas is the celebration most highly cherished world-wide.

Since Christmas is treasured globally, how can you prepare your heart on a personal and practical level? Interestingly, God esteems three qualities that help prepare your heart for Christmas:

Why do you think God values these three qualities? It has something to do with “resting place.” There are two kinds of “resting place.” Let’s explore the first kind now.

God created you and knows you inside-out. So, He knows how to best prepare your heart for Christmas – and (BTW) for daily life. And it starts with a term we don’t use often today: “resting place.”

But first, let’s start with God’s knowledge of you.

Have you ever reflected on how much God knows about you? Ps. 139: 1-5 is eye-opening.

“You have searched me, Lord, and You know me . . . when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts . . . discern my going out and my lying down . . . You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You, Lord, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and You lay Your hand upon me.”

God can choose anywhere to live. So, it’s significant He wants His “home” – His resting place – to be your heart. What a privilege and responsibility! He lovingly made you for Himself with glorious original design to make your life purposeful.

Well, humility, a contrite spirit, and respect determine whether you will be God’s home – His resting place. When you choose the provisions of Christ’s cross, you gain these three qualities.

Have you considered your life to be God’s resting place? Now it’s time to consider the second kind of “resting place.”

This “resting place” is yours. Your resting place – is in God’s heart! How does this happen?

First, you accept His invitation into Christ – and you invite Him into you. But humility, a contrite spirit, and respect for God’s Word also determine if you will choose God to be your resting place. Opposite ideas are pride, personal agenda, and lack of esteem for God’s opinion. Consequently, you are in control of these choices.

Why not choose to be humble, contrite, and respectful to prepare your heart for Christmas.

Have you considered God to be your resting place?

God’s name for Baby Jesus has you in mind. Is. 7:14 and Mt. 1:23 both say, “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call Him Emmanuel (which means ‘God with us’).” Emmanuel is a special name for Baby Jesus.

Incidentally, “Jesus” is what an angel told Mary to name her child. (Lk. 1:31) Jesus was a common name in that culture. From the beginning, Jesus identifies with common people.

Initially, before His birth, Jesus was called “The Word.” (Jn. 1:1-3) Jn. 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” This is when “The Word” became Jesus.

However, the very special name – Emmanuel: God with you is stunning. Think of it! You have a dear Companion you can trust, and He will never leave you.

Traditions at Christmas are so important to people. Jesus, Himself, intentionally kept meaningful traditions when He lived on earth. However, He always brought something fresh and new into traditions.

Why not prepare your heart by asking Jesus to fill your life with fresh “newness” even as you keep meaningful Christmas traditions? This helps prepare your heart.

Let’s explore four practical ways to prepare your heart this Christmas:

Waiting on God is active faith. It is also expectation. In fact, I wonder if it’s possible to wait without expectation.

True expectation is:

As we already mentioned, waiting on God is both a privilege and responsibility.

Waiting for Christmas with active faith and expectation helps safe-guard your holiday preparations.

You can connect with God, enjoy meaningful traditions, and anticipate something fresh and new from God – while you wait.

Life has lots of good in it. Still, everyone has bad news, disappointments, and losses. Sometimes Christmas has sad times. But if you draw close to Emmanuel, God promises amazing exchanges. Have you heard about the gift exchanges God offers (Is. 61:3)?

To claim your wonderful gift exchanges, let go of your losses and preferences.

Instead – connect with God, enjoy meaningful traditions, and anticipate something fresh and new from God as you trust in Him for these gift exchanges.

Scripture instructs and encourages every day of the year. Are you in Scripture to hear what God is saying to you? Everyday?

God wants you to be His holy resting place, so He refines you. (Is. 48:10) God also promises to help and strengthen you. Is. 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you . . . I will strengthen you and help you . . .”

You have a decision to make. Will you soak your soul with God’s Word as you prepare your heart for Christmas?

Is. 45:9 says, “Woe to those who quarrel with their Maker.” Agreeing with God means not quarreling with Him.

Questions About Quarreling:

Instead of quarreling with God, choose to agree with Him. He is –

Connect with God, enjoy meaningful traditions, and anticipate something fresh and new from God as you agree with Him.

Life was intended to include rest. God established every seventh day as a holy rest. Planning special “down times” throughout the year also helps you rest. And there’s so much value in a good night’s sleep. God created rest as part of life’s rhythm.

Mt. 11: 29 says, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

God wants you to rest as you prepare for Christmas. This may mean – “less is more.” Simplify your planning. Choose your most meaningful traditions and let go of other things. And be open in your heart to receive something “new” from the Lord.

God goes straight to relationship. Emmanuel. God With Us.

Connect with God, enjoy meaningful traditions, and anticipate something fresh and new as you rest in God.

I invite you to follow us on your favorite social media. Do sign up on our email list to receive weekly articles. PLUS tune-in to our weekly podcast using your preferred podcast app or use our online player at the top of each article.

Visit our website for resources to get into God’s Word and live an Alive and Active Life.