Trust God’s plan of deliverance. The joyous message of Christmas is designed to fill our hearts with a longing for God’s rescue. And that longing is designed to move us to faith in His plan of deliverance.

We need a Savior, Jesus! We all are sinners and hopelessly doomed to judgment on our own. We need a Savior. Christmas reminds us of God’s gift of salvation that rescues us from our doom.

Call to mind God and His Word. When our hearts are cast down and burdened, we must find our hope in God. When we remember God’s joy, greatness, and promises our hearts are moved to peace amid the troubles of life.

Listen to the true voice of God. Many voices will slander, reproach, and shame God’s people. But we need not live weighed down by this shame. Instead, we must listen to the voice of God and what He speaks about His own.

Intentionally give thanks and praise to God. Unbelief is exposed in our grumbling and complaining. We need a renewed focus on the Lord’s greatness and goodness to move our hearts toward belief and gratitude.

Confess your sins to God. Do guilt and shame over your sin weigh you down? God can remove that burden and fill you with His joy. Forgiveness is available to those who humbly confess their sin before God.

Accept the compassion of God. We will face circumstances in life that bring sorrow and mourning to our souls. God is compassionate and His joy is received through a heart of humility.

God is enough. When your heart is empty and there is a longing in your soul, look to God. You were created to have complete satisfaction only in God.

God is for you! When the fears of life close in, God’s people can rest in the comfort of the Lord. God is more powerful than life’s troubles and His promises surround His people.

Turn your gaze to the faithful God! When life is confusing and bewilderment sets in; when troubles overwhelm and evil abounds, do not be discouraged but trust in God’s faithfulness.