If you’re anything like me, you are now completely immersed in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, which is (hopefully) filled with time with family and friends, the warmth of excellent food, the glow of decorations, and the shine of lights. It is, however, winter, which is naturally the coldest and darkest season of the year. As a result, the warmth of Christmas counters the chill of winter. The question I pose to you today is which one will you embrace?

As we enter this season, there is a natural tendency to be negative. You might even hear that suicides are at an all-time high in December, but did you know that isn’t the case? It’s an old myth because the biggest rates of suicide occur in the spring. Because people get together, hang out, and connect profoundly with others, Christmas has one of the lowest rates of suicide. They’re taking a break from work and, with the start of a new year, they’re typically gaining a new perspective on their life. Furthermore, they are blessed by giving and prioritizing the needs of others before their own. All of these things are part of the holiday blessing!

Friend, In this winter season, I believe God has a present for you; He doesn’t want it to be a dark and depressing time for you. Even though the days are growing shorter, the lights are decreasing in anticipation of a spectacular spectacle. Something good is on the way, and Christmas is a fantastic opportunity to take a break from your regular routine and reflect on your life so that you can begin to build the life of your dreams. Consider where you can go with Jesus in the coming year, what you can accomplish with His help, and where He is guiding you. Take a break and allow yourself to enjoy the winter season. You need time to rest, reflect, recognize God’s faithfulness, and build His best in your life, just as crops need the cold to thrive.