"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people...Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men" (Luke 2:10; 14 KJV).

Christmas is the day we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in Bethlehem. In God's omnipotent wisdom, He allows us a time to set aside, more than any other and rejoice over the gift of His Son.

In many lives, Christmas is not an anticipated time or joyful season. It is a time that many dread and come out of the season more drained and frazzled than they entered into it. They do not experience the great joy and it is less than peaceful in their earth. That is not God's best for your life.

As we approach this holiday season, let me share you with you four ways to restore peace to your earth and joy to your world.
  1. Remember the focus of the day.
    This is the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus and our main focus should be on the gift He provided. The gift of salvation brings forgiveness, healing, freedom and peace.

    It has already been paid for by the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus. He is the "reason for the season." Do not be burdened if you cannot find or afford the "perfect gift"; Jesus has already provided it.
  2. Refuse to overspend or use credit to buy gifts.
    This will rob you of your peace throughout the season, as you attempt to "creatively finance" your purchases and monthly obligations. It will continue to affect your joy throughout the year, as months later you are still paying for the purchase, with interest.
  3. Replace materialism with memorable moments.
    Gifts will only last for a certain amount of time, until they wear out, break or do not fit anymore. But memories of times together with family and friends will last literally for eternity.

    The people that you love and cherish would rather have time together with you, rather than the stress and confusion that the season can offer. One option is to choose to enjoy dinner at a restaurant or a family gathering at your favorite place, instead of buying gifts.
  4. Receive Christ as your Savior.
    Without Christ in your life, you will never possess true peace or joy. It will be impossible to experience the true miracle of the season unless you have received the Christ of Christmas. If you have not asked Jesus Christ to be your Savior, take the opportunity today.
These four principles to "restore peace to your earth and joy to your world" will allow you and your family to truly enjoy God's best this holiday season. That is my prayer and desire for you. Have a very blessed Christmas.

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