Hey, friend. As we welcome December, stepping officially into the enchanting season of Christmas, let’s have a heart-to-heart about the unspoken battles many women face during this time. It’s very possible you are believing lies. Lies that will defeat you, if you are not careful. Oh, I’ve believed them as well. If left unchallenged, these untruths can cast a shadow on the joy and significance of Christmas for you. But fear not; we’re not going to settle by accepting what is not true this year. Instead, we are going to expose these lies and empower you to walk confidently in the truth and victory that Christ has already secured for you. Let’s get to it.

Lie #1: Your Value is Tied to the Perfect Holiday Photo

Oh, you know this one, for sure. It’s that deceitful whisper telling you that your worth is somehow connected to the perfection of your holiday snapshots. The pressure to capture flawless moments for social media can make you feel as though your value is measured by the visual appeal of your celebrations, and the life they represent.

I once found myself envious of a young mom of at least four kids who posted the most perfect kitchen this season. Everything was white, decorated, and spotless. Not even a cereal bowl or cup was out of place. My cereal-bowl and cup-laden kitchen was far from picturesque, not to mention all the otherness required when you are raising a houseful. A quick glance at my surroundings compared with hers always brought feelings of inadequacy to the surface, leaving me to believing I am not enough.

This lie I have learned, is not true.

The Truth About the Lies that will Defeat You

God knows our tendency to believe appearance matter most. When Samuel was changed with anointed the first king of Israel, Saul looked like the man for the job. He was tall, good looking, and fit for the job. But appearances were deceiving. Saul didn’t turn out to be such a great king. So, the Lord takes Samuel on a journey to anoint his replacement. When confronted with God’s choice in a young boy, not nearly as impressive, Samuel distrusts His judgment. God’s teachable moment with Samuel provides for us an example to combat this lie with the unshakeable truth.

The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7

Your value is not found in the picture-perfect exterior but in the beauty of your heart. Leave the cereal bowls and cups on the counter. Take the picture, anyway. In this, you will embrace the authentic joy of the season, free from the chains of comparison.

Lie #2: Your Worth is Defined by the Size and Hoopla of Your Gatherings

It’s the subtle lie that sneaks in, making you believe that the significance of your Christmas lies in the number of people gathered around your table. The societal expectation for grand celebrations can lead to feelings of inadequacy if your holiday gatherings are lacking in the hoopla arena. Somehow, we feel as if we cannot meet some sort of standard set by society if our circle is small or even fractured.

The Truth About the Lies that Will Defeat You

Fragmented and tiny gatherings to celebrate the birth of our Savior are just as significant in your living room as any around the globe. You and I can counter this lie by remembering Matthew 18:20:

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.

The true essence of Christmas is found in the celebration of the King, and in the warmth of genuine connections, not the size of the crowd. You and I can freely worship the Giver of the gift of Jesus, cherish the moments we have with loved ones, regardless of the numbers, knowing that Christ’s presence is in the midst of our gatherings.

Lie #3: Loneliness will Destroy the Holidays

For some, the holidays can be a season of loneliness, a time when the absence of loved ones, loss, or unmet expectations becomes more pronounced. The lie whispers that loneliness is an inevitable companion during Christmas, and you will be miserable, leaving you dreading the feelings of isolation and disconnected sure to come.

And it can, unless we bathe ourselves in Hope.

The Truth About the Lies That will Defeat You

We counter this emotionally-laden lie with the assurance of why we celebrate:

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:2-6

Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off. Proverbs 23:17-18

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

Let me encourage you to fight back against this lie with this barrage of God’s Word. Cling to it. My sweet friend, your loneliness may envelope you. It may threaten to snuff out any joy or hopefulness you might otherwise experience, right on cue. But this year, don’t let it win you over. This Christmas season, take opportunities to reach out to others, participate in community events, sing praise music to drown out our thoughts, and let the love of Christ fill your every crevice.

Walking in Victory: Embracing the True Meaning of Christmas

Let’s make this season about more than flawless festivities, comparisons, or loneliness by choosing to believe truth over lies.

As we navigate this Christmas season together, I encourage you to meditate on these truths. Let the good news of God’s Word reshape your days. Share this message with others who may need the reminder that Christmas is about far more than what meets the eye. Let’s commit to walking in the victory that Christ has secured for us. Embrace the Hope of Christmas and spreading His love wherever we go.

Welcome to December. May your Christmas season filled with the profound hope and joy that only Christ can bring. You, my friend, are seen, known, and deeply loved.

For His glory,

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