December 5

So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you. Deuteronomy 31:6

For some, Christmas is a very difficult time. We tend to miss loved ones more, feel more alone than other times, and feel so extremely stressed over all there is to do. As you start your day, try to remember that God is personally going to go before you. And if your God is for you, who can stand against you? In whatever situation you find yourself in this holiday season, remember to be strong, be courageous. God is right there with you, no more than a thought away. When you miss those loved ones, whether they have passed away or are just far away, trust in the Lord that He will take care of them. If you are lonely, ask God to give you someone to be with. But also know that He is there with you. When the stress of the day sets in, ask God to show you what needs to be done and what you need to let go. Your Lord wants so much to take care of you. He sent this baby, His Son, so that you can have a relationship with Him. He is pleading for you to call on Him. Remember: He will neither fail you nor abandon you!

Father, how good You are to me. Walk with me this day, reminding me You are always there and that You will provide for me. Help me, Lord, with my unbelief so I can learn to trust You more and more each day. Love You, Lord. Amen

Fifth-Day Activities

Today, be aware of those who need you. Even if it’s just to listen. Even if it’s just for a moment. You may never be aware of what your word of encouragement or positive answer will do for someone else. We are all hurting with something, but, remember, God has comforted us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 2 Corinthians 1:4: “You are here for a purpose, look around and you will find it today.”

Today maybe you and your family can make Christmas funnel baskets. Take a piece of colored construction paper, and let your child decorate it with colored markers, glitter glue, whatever you have on hand. Roll into a funnel. Tape or glue it together. With a paper punch, make two holes opposite of each other on the opened ends. Thread a ribbon through the holes and tie it off. Place goodies or cookies inside, and visit the neighbors with a wonderful homemade gift!