As we enter the Christmas season, we are reminded of wonderful times filled with joy, fun, and the warmth of loved ones. I also know that, for some, this season might bring feelings of loneliness or heaviness.

When the Christmas cheer seems just out of reach, I want you to know that there is hope and a path to true joy in this season – a joy that only our Savior’s love can bring.

As you know, it’s going on eight months since Jerry, the love of my life, went home to be with Jesus. We certainly missed him at Thanksgiving; Christmas Eve (Jerry’s Birthday) and Christmas morning will bring their own emotional hurdles. 

But I have determined that satan is not going to steal my joy! He is not going to rob me and my family of creating new Christmas memories and enjoying our time together. 

Just like you, as a believer, I have to reject negative thoughts, keep my focus on God, and cultivate gratitude for His goodness in my life. 

One powerful way to shift from sorrow to joy is through appreciating the good things God has already placed in your life. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Gratitude is a key that unlocks the door to happiness. 

When you choose to thank God for what you have, even in challenging times, you will start to see just how blessed you truly are. You may not always feel like there’s something to be thankful for, but I encourage you to look again – there’s always a blessing waiting to be noticed.

I remember a family that came to our church many years ago that were believing for a new car. When Jerry asked to see the car they were currently driving, he was taken aback. The car was filled with trash, fast food wrappers, and was in complete disarray. Jerry told them, “If you’re truly believing for a new car, start by taking care of the one you have.”

Friend, if you want more joy in your life, start by loving and caring for what you have right now. Psalm 84:12 says, “LORD Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you.” One definition I’ve seen for the word blessed is blissfully happy or content. 

Maybe you aren’t driving the car you want, living in the house of your dreams, or wearing the clothes you desire, but when you choose to trust God, express gratitude for what you do have, and declare, “I choose to live a happy life,” you set yourself up for God’s blessings to overflow.

One of the greatest blessings God has given us is our family. I treasure the moments I’ve spent with my late husband, children, and grandchildren. We used to take vacations all together, packed into the car with grandkids on my lap, and I remember telling Jerry, “I’m the happiest anybody could ever be.” Though my grandchildren have outgrown sitting on Grandma’s lap, I thank God for great-grandchildren now! 

These moments are precious gifts from God, and He desires that your family be filled with love and happiness too.

I want to remind you that there is an enemy out there trying to disrupt your joy, especially within your family. Since the beginning of time, satan has tried to tear families apart- turning brother against brother and children against parents. 

But God’s plan is different. He created us to live in love, to reflect His image (Genesis 1:26), and to enjoy our families, growing in happiness together.

When you love and appreciate the people God has placed in your life, He will bless you with even more joy and abundance. Matthew 25:29 tells us, “To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance.” 

Deuteronomy 30:19 says, “…I have set before you life and death, the blessings and the curses; therefore, choose life, that you and your descendants may live.” You have the power to choose – to choose gratitude, to choose love, to choose life. 

As you make choices that honor God and put your trust in Him, you will find true joy, and God will work on your behalf.

I encourage you to take a moment today and ask yourself, “What do I have to be happy about?” Write down everything you can think of, big or small, and praise God for it. I promise, as you do, joy will begin to fill your heart, and God will bless you beyond measure. 

I have learned that hope and expectation live alongside joy. When you choose to be grateful, you start to expect good things. Your focus begins to shift from fear to faith. 

You can reject negative thoughts dwelling on the hurts of the past and you can choose to appreciate the good things God has given you. As you do, faith and expectation will begin to rise inside of your spirit. 

As I look to move into a new year, I’m grateful that God has shown His goodness to me despite the circumstances. God is faithful! 

I also love hearing the responses and testimonies from people just like you who are being encouraged and strengthened through our ministry outreaches. I am so grateful for you!

It’s because of your faithful support we can continue training pastors and leaders around the world, reach tens of thousands of lost people through Chariots of Light, and teach people how to be winners in life. 

As you give this month, I want to send you Jerry’s audio message, Expanding Your Expectations, as my thank you. This encouraging resource will show you how to set your expectations even higher and to not limit what God wants to do. 

You can give securely and conveniently online, simply go to jsmiaustralia.org/offering or by calling +61 7 5576 5534, and be sure to check the box to receive the monthly message via CD or MP3.

I’m praying for you and your family this Christmas season. I’m linking my faith with yours for more of God’s goodness and blessing to be manifested in your life.

From the Savelle family, and all the staff, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 

In His love and mine,

P.S. Remember, God’s Word is our source of life. Matthew 4:4 tells us, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Spend time in His Word, let it fill your spirit, and you will grow day by day. 

Thank you for your prayers, love, and faithful support. I hope to hear from you soon.