“Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us…” Hebrews 12:1

As each moment presented itself, and I prayed and gave thanks to God, I could feel joy return. I felt thankful for the day and all these blessings He gave us. I counted myself blessed for all who are in my life, for all that I have, and for the focus He’s given me to endure. The enemy wasn’t going to ruin my Christmas, and he didn’t!

Yay, Hope Through Hard Times is celebrating its one year anniversary! God has been so good and so faithful. It has been an absolute joy to share all the posts that we have with you this year. We pray that they have been a source of encouragement, discipleship, comfort, joy, and blessing to you all. We trust that God has worked in your life, and pray that He has become Lord of your life. It was an absolute pleasure to introduce our Comfort Boxes to you as well! Thank you to all those who purchased one since the launch. We were greatly blessed by your interest and support. We sold 31 so far! All praise to the Lord for great beginnings. So what’s next? Well, there are a few changes coming up that we wanted to let you know about: We will only be posting twice a week. We’re switching…

There was evidence of the Lord all around us. So many people shared testimonies of God blessing them in various ways. Needed ways. Impactful ways. These met our needs. They warmed our hearts. They gave us a testimony to share of His goodness and faithfulness to us.

Check out this message to find out details for Hope Through Hard Times activity over the holidays.

…As I sat and admired the decorations, the wife and I got into a conversation about Christmas traditions. There was one in particular that stuck with me from that conversation that I’d like to pass on to you now.

What do you do when the innocent sparkle of Santa fades as children get older? You have some fun…

Let’s put some excitement back into giving this Christmas. I know there’s so many adorable little babies’ clothes and lots of toys all around the stores. It’s tugging at your heart to want to buy them. You could buy some for your nieces and nephews. Don’t have any? No worries. I’ve got another idea for you.

As I read through and reflected upon the story of Jesus’ birth, there’s another part of the story that I have been fascinated by this year. The movement of the Holy Spirit.

Are you having trouble thinking about what to get your loved ones this Christmas? Do they have everything they need? Are you tight on a budget? (No, this isn’t an ad for Christmas Comfort Boxes, but by all means, feel free to check them out!)