This has been one of the most trying Holiday seasons of my life.  Depression and despair have dogged my steps.  Everyday I expect the Christmas spirit to arrive with the shopping, decorating and planning.  Every night I go to bed exhausted and in tears just wanting to get the whole thing over with so I can really be depressed in January.

Each day I read my Bible and talk with God.  I’ve been asking Him to show me how to have joy on the inside when the life is painful on the outside.  He has shown me Romans 12:12 where Paul talks about being joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer in addition to the verses in Philippians about keeping my mind on what’s good and not worrying.   After praying and asking Him once again to show me joy, I received His answer.  Basically, joy in the midst of pain comes from;  living in the moment;  keeping my mind on what is true for today;  not worrying about anything, but making my requests to God with thanksgiving;  and living in the hope of God’s plans for eternity.

The resulting joy has welled up from within along with anticipation of Christ’s Birthday Celebration.   For all of you who are feeling pain this Christmas, read those passages and talk with your Creator.  His joy is the best gift of all.