This Christmas

                                     www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org

Christmas is around the corner. Many across the globe are shopping for last minute gifts, thinking about what they’re going to cook, and some are even planning on visiting family for the holiday. Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday this year! Woohoo! With all that being said, this Christmas, I encourage you to…

• Enjoy every bit of spending that quality time with your family and friends
• Make it an opportunity for joy and peace
• Embrace the fellowship
• Laugh, eat, play games and open up great discussions
• Most importantly, shine bright wherever you go for Jesus

There will be some around you who are saved, and some who are not. In either case, show the love of Christ this Christmas (everyday of course), but you know what I mean. ;-) For some people, this particular holiday time brings on depression and suicide. Some are low in spirit for a variety of reasons. Pray, intercede for them. Your prayers can go a long way.

This season, make a conscious effort to encourage those around you…even on social media. Use it to spread love, joy, and peace. Give the gift of Christ’s love this Christmas to those you encounter on and offline. This time of year, many people’s hearts are open to receive Jesus, through generosity and compassion. So don't miss the opportunity to be a blessing in someone’s life this Christmas.

And one more thing, before I close this post. Please don’t get into arguments with people over whether to celebrate Christmas or not. I have seen this displayed all over social media and in past conversations. The Bible warns of such verbiage and criticism. Romans 14:5-6 says, “In the same way, some think one day is more holy than another day while others think every day is alike. You should each be fully convinced that whichever day you choose is acceptable. Those who worship the Lord on a special day do it to honor him.”

Also, Romans 14:10 & 12-13 goes on to say, "So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ...yes, each of us will give a personal account to God. So let's stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall." #wisdom

*So whether it’s the Sabbath, a church day, Easter or Christmas, take heed to what the Word of God says, sis.

I echo the words from the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 2:23-25 which says, “Again, I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.”

The important thing to remember is that Christ was born, He died for us to be set free from sin (salvation), and to restore right relationship with God. He also was resurrected on the 3rd day (after His death), and ascended into heaven. AND He is coming back. Praise God!

This Christmas, remember these things. Love you, sis!

Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!

~Courtnaye

ALSO, my NEW 8-Week Study Guide and Video Teaching Series from my book, "IDENTIFIED: Knowing Who You Are in Christ & Moving Forward in Your Purpose” is coming soon!!! Stay Tuned! 

*Tune in every Monday at 7:30am for new posts, “Like” my Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/InsideOutWCourtnaye), and follow me on Twitter at https://twitter.com/InOutwCourtnaye. Also, share this blog with friends, family, co-workers, or your women’s group or ministry. I’d love to stay connected and help more women grow in the Lord! Thanks again and may God be with you!