The first candle of advent represents hope. What does it look like to have hope when you are grieving during the holiday season? This year Christmas is going to be different for me. My husband is in the Army, and he is going to be deployed during the holidays. I know many of you are also experiencing grief, pain, and loss in your life.
If you are anything like me, you might be thinking, “I just want to put my head down and get through the holidays as quickly as possible.” However, Christmas is the perfect time to be reminded of the hope that we have in Jesus and what is to come. God sent his only son, Jesus, onto this earth so that He could live a perfect life and die an undeserved death for you and for me. Even though it is difficult, it is possible to hold hope for freedom and joy, even if it is just for a few moments. Here are some truths that I wanted to share with you so that you can also experience hope during the holidays.
Jesus Is The Hope Of The World
Many of you have heard of the word Emmanuel, meaning God with us. In scripture, Isaiah 7:14 says, “therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign; the virgin will conceive, and give birth to a son, and will call Him Emmanuel.”
This is important to remember because God sent his son to dwell with us many, many years ago, and yet God is still with us today. He goes before us and He is behind us. Praise God that we get to live on earth after the prophecies were fulfilled! The weary world can still rejoice because we have a savior who came to be with us. What a gift!
Hope In His Second Coming
It is also important to remember that Jesus has promised us that He is coming again. Even in our suffering, we can have hope knowing that one day we will have eternal life with Him and experience pain no more. Revelation 21:4 says, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Behold, He is making all things new. May we believe that this holiday season!
What Is Biblical Hope?
I hope you have gathered a little more about biblical hope and how to hold hope this holiday season. Biblical hope is not wishing for different or better circumstances, even if you are amidst grief. Biblical hope is believing that wherever God leads you is the safest and best place because He is with you and He is working all things for your good.
Ephesians 3:20-21says, “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
Begin Working With A Therapist in Marietta, GA
If you are experiencing grief this holiday season, you are not alone. Please consider reaching out to a qualified therapist. Our team of caring therapists would be honored to offer support with in-person and online services from our Marietta, GA-based practice. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:
Reach out to talk to a Marietta therapist.
Have your first appointment at Remain Connected.
Learn how to incorporate hope as a daily practice.
Other Services Offered at Remain Connected Counseling
Our team knows you may experience other issues in your life. This is why we are happy to offer a variety of services including teen therapy, anxiety treatment, and EMDR therapy. In addition, we also offer life transitions therapy and depression counseling, and more all under a Christian counseling lens. By using online therapy, these services are available to anyone in Georgia. Learn more about our team of dedicated therapists and contact us for more information.
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