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December 26.2025
3 Minutes Read

Finding Joy Beyond Gifts: Root Your Happiness in Christ This Christmas

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Discovering True Joy Beyond Circumstances

Christmas is a time of giving, but in a world filled with possessions and expectations, it can feel overwhelming. We've all been there—counting presents under the tree or feeling let down when the holiday doesn’t match our expectations. This reflection invites us to look deeper than gift-wrapped boxes and discover a joy that transcends our circumstances, rooted in our faith. As 14-year-old Tessa expressed in her email to Pastor John, the struggle between circumstance-dependent happiness and Jesus-dependent happiness is real, especially for the youth navigating their own faith journeys.

Understanding God’s Purpose in Our Struggles

How can we shift from focusing on what we don’t have to appreciating what we were given? The first step is understanding God's purpose behind our struggles. Life is filled with trials, and instead of viewing them as distractions, we can learn to see them as tools that shape us. For instance, in Romans 5:3–5, we learn that trouble leads to endurance, character, and ultimate hope. By overcoming our struggles with faith, we can find deeper joy and satisfaction in our relationship with God.

Building a Foundation of Faith in Young Hearts

Families and parents play a pivotal role in nurturing this understanding. It’s essential to guide our children to see that joy is found not in possessions but in Christ. Parenting is not just about providing material gifts but ingraining values and beliefs grounded in scripture. How do we build this foundation in our children? Teaching them about Jesus' love, sharing biblical stories, and demonstrating faith in challenging times will help them recognize that eternal joy comes from a relationship with their Creator.

Faith as a Lifelong Journey

This journey of faith isn’t just for the young; it's for everyone. Regardless of age, we face moments where joy seems directly linked to our circumstances. Adults, just like youth, grapple with feelings affected by their daily experiences. Just as Tessa is encouraged to seek deeper answers, adults must also acknowledge their own struggles, finding comfort and hope in God's unwavering love.

Taking Action: Cultivating Jesus-Dependent Happiness

So, how can we actively cultivate Jesus-dependent happiness? Here are a few practices that can make a profound difference:

  • **Daily Prayer and Reflection:** Set aside time each day to pray and read scripture, seeking guidance and strength through challenges.
  • **Community Connections:** Engage with church communities and foster relationships that uplift our spirits and encourage growth. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers provides support and wisdom.
  • **Gratitude Practices:** Keeping a gratitude journal helps us remember and focus on all the blessings in our lives, shifting our mindset from lack to abundance.

Final Thoughts: Keeping the Focus on Christ

In this Christmas season, let us remember that it’s not about the gifts we receive or the joys we feel based on our circumstances. Instead, it’s an opportunity to focus on the greatest gift—our Savior who loves us unconditionally. As we navigate this journey of faith, let’s encourage one another to look beyond the presents and find our true joy in Christ, nurturing that relationship every day.

As we grow in our faith and understanding, we are called to share this joy with others—be it through our words, actions, or simple moments of kindness. How can you encourage someone in your life to discover Jesus-dependent happiness this season? Reflect on this challenge and see where God leads you!

John Piper

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02.20.2026

Finding Strength in Waiting: Embrace Your Faith Journey

Update SEO Keyword: Waiting in Faith Many of us have faced periods of waiting in our lives—whether for an answer to prayer, a breakthrough in a challenging situation, or a deeper understanding of our faith. In a world where we often seek immediate results, the waiting can feel unbearable. Yet, as discussed in the video "Waiting Is the Hardest Part," this season of waiting can be transformed from a burden into a blessing when we approach it with faith and patience.In 'Waiting Is the Hardest Part,' the discussion dives into the importance of patience and faith during periods of waiting, prompting us to reflect deeper on this crucial aspect of our spiritual journeys. Understanding the Purpose of Waiting Waiting is not simply sitting idly; it is an active, powerful process of growth. God's timing is perfect, and He uses these moments to train us, strengthen us, and prepare us for what’s to come. In Isaiah 40:31, we are reminded, "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint." This verse encourages us to place our hope and trust in God during our waiting periods. Supporting Each Other Through Waits As a community, we can support one another through these waiting times. When someone we care about is waiting for a significant life event, we can come alongside them to pray, listen, and encourage. Sharing our own stories of waiting can help others feel less alone. Remembering that we are all on this journey together creates opportunities for profound connections and growth. Examples from the Bible Many biblical figures faced times of waiting. For example, the Israelites waited for forty years to enter the Promised Land. They had their struggles, but God provided for them every step of the way. We can take comfort in knowing that even in our waiting, God walks alongside us, just as He did with the Israelites. These stories serve as powerful reminders of faith, resilience, and the ultimate fulfillment that God has for us. Future Insights on Our Growth The season of waiting can also unveil future opportunities. By trusting in God during our wait, we prepare ourselves for the plans He has ahead—whether that is spiritual growth, new relationships, or fulfilling our purpose in life. Waiting allows us to cultivate patience, reliance on God, and a deeper understanding of His nature. Take Action: Bearing Each Other’s Burdens While waiting can often feel solitary, we have the chance to create a fabric of support within our communities. Let’s take the extra step to check in with friends, offer to pray, and share our own waiting stories. It’s in those acts of kindness that we embody Christ's love for one another. Embracing the Uncertainty Uncertainty can often be one of the most challenging aspects of waiting. However, it’s important to embrace this uncertainty and view it through the lens of faith. It allows us to let go of our plans and trust in God’s plan for our lives, inspiring us to develop courage and tenacity as we await His workings in our lives. Conclusion: Learn to Lean on God While waiting may feel uncomfortable at times, it is an essential part of our spiritual journey. It teaches us the value of patience and aligns our hearts with the incredible work God is doing behind the scenes. As you navigate your seasons of waiting, remember that He is with you, guiding your steps. Embrace the journey, lean on your community, and watch as your faith deepens with each moment spent waiting on the Lord. If you've enjoyed exploring waiting in faith with us, consider reaching out to a friend and encouraging them on their own journey. Together, we can grow and learn through every waiting season!

02.19.2026

How Singing the Old and the New Enriches Our Faith Journey

Update Understanding the Connection Between Old and New Songs In the video Singing the Old and the New, we explore how traditional hymns and contemporary worship songs can come together to enrich our spiritual lives. Just like a delicious recipe that blends old and new ingredients, combining these musical styles creates a beautiful experience that resonates with many in our faith community.In 'Singing the Old and the New', the discussion dives into the importance of blending traditional and contemporary worship styles, offering insights that enhance our understanding of music in faith. Why Mixing Musical Styles Matters For committed Christians, integrating both old hymns and new worship songs is more than just a musical choice—it's a way to connect generations. Old hymns often speak timeless truths of Scripture that can serve as a foundation for our faith, while contemporary songs often emerge from current experiences and cultures, touching on today’s challenges. This blend nurtures a sense of unity among worshippers of all ages, providing an opportunity for everyone to feel included in the worship service. Finding Joy in Praise When we gather to worship, we are reminded of the incredible joy that music brings. Singing together fosters connection and community among the congregation. Whether it’s a joyful upbeat song that gets everyone clapping or a soothing hymn that settles the spirit, these moments lift our hearts towards God. For youth and young adults, being involved in music creates an engaging environment that encourages them to grow in their faith, while parents and church leaders can use the music to teach important biblical concepts to their families. Insights from Diverse Perspectives Discussing songs old and new opens our eyes to the rich tapestry of faith expressions across the globe. Different cultures bring their unique sounds and styles to worship, enhancing the diversity within the church. By embracing various musical styles from different backgrounds, we celebrate God’s creativity. This perspective can lead to powerful worship experiences that not only glorify God but also bond us as a community of believers. Practical Tips for Using Worship Music Effectively Here are a few suggestions for integrating both old and new worship songs in your church or family setting: Balance the Setlist: When planning worship service, try to include both an uplifting contemporary song alongside a classic hymn. This balance allows people to engage with music in a familiar but fresh way. Encourage Participation: Create opportunities for young people to share their favorite worship songs, both old and new. You could even have a ‘family night’ where everyone sings together, mixing hymns with modern worship songs. Share Stories: Teach the significance of different songs by sharing their stories. Understanding why a hymn was written or how contemporary tracks relate to current issues adds depth to worship. Invitation to Join the Worship Journey As we reflect on the exploration of old hymns and new songs, let us remember that music is a powerful tool for connection and growth in our faith. It encourages us to delve deeper into our relationship with God and each other. Whether you are a church leader, parent, or a young believer, whether you prefer hymns or contemporary worship, there's a place for you in God's family. Embrace the songs of both the past and the present, joining hands with fellow believers to create a community of worship. Together, let’s celebrate our faith journeys and inspire one another to live out God’s calling in our lives.

02.18.2026

Navigating Worldly Desires: A Guide for Committed Christians

Update The Battle Against Worldly Desires In the journey of faith, one of the most significant challenges we face is our struggle with worldly desires. These desires can pull us away from our spiritual goals, blurring our vision and disrupting our connection with God. Understanding what worldly desires are and how to face them is essential for every believer in their spiritual growth.In 'What Are Worldly Desires? Titus 2:11–15, Part 3', the discussion dives into understanding the struggle with worldly desires and how it influences our faith journey, prompting us to explore actionable insights. What Are Worldly Desires? Worldly desires refer to those cravings and longings that drive us toward materialism, selfishness, and distractions that ultimately pull us away from a deeper relationship with God. Titus 2:11-15 encourages Christians to recognize these impulses and live a life that reflects grace and truth. But what do these desires look like in our daily lives? Understanding the Impact of Worldly Desires Worldly desires can manifest in various ways: an obsession with trends, the pursuit of wealth, or a longing for approval and recognition from others. They can create an emotional void, leaving us feeling unsatisfied and disconnected from our true purpose. For instance, a young person may chase after social media likes or flashy possessions, only to find that these fleeting moments of joy are ultimately empty. Finding Strength in Community As we navigate these challenges, it’s vital to surround ourselves with a supportive community that shares our faith. In churches, youth groups, and family gatherings, we can find encouragement and solidarity in our shared struggles. Just as the early Christians gathered for fellowship, we too can lean on each other to resist the pull of worldly desires and grow together in faith. Practical Steps for Overcoming Worldly Desires Recognizing worldly desires is the first step towards overcoming them. Here are some practical tips to help you stay focused on your spiritual journey: Daily Reflection: Spend time each day in prayer and meditation to understand your desires. Ask God to guide you in distinguishing between what feeds your heart and what distracts it. Accountability Partners: Find a friend or family member who shares your values and can help remind you of your faith goals. Engaging in Service: Volunteer within your local community to shift the focus from personal desire to collective good, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment through service. Embracing Spiritual Growth Choosing to live a life free from the heavy chains of worldly desires is not an easy path, but it is a rewarding one. When you prioritize your spiritual growth, you open the door to deeper joy and fulfilling connections. The more we understand and combat these desires, the closer we draw to God's plan for our lives. The Hope of a New Perspective As you move forward, remember the words from Titus—it is through grace that we have the power to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions. God walks with us, providing comfort and alignment for our hearts' deepest longings. Take a moment to reflect on your own desires and ask yourself if they lead you closer to God or create distance. Every small step toward spiritual clarity counts, and our community is here to support you every step of the way!

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