Monday, December 21, 2009

'Tis Season the Season

By Shane Robinson

The holiday season has officially begun. How do you feel about the holidays this year? For many Americans, this holiday season will not as extravagant as it was for them in years past (at least this is what the media is saying). With the current economic situation, many families have “cut back” on their spending. May I suggest to you that this can be a good thing! We can focus so much on the newest gadgets, clothes, etc., that we fail to see the true blessings of life.

It can be difficult to explain to our children that “money does not grow on trees,” but this holiday season may be a great time to teach your children that “The best things in life are free.” We begin by showing them family is important (Eph.5:22-6:4), giving is better than receiving (Acts 20:35), and how we should be thankful to God for everything (Col.3:16).

Consider what the apostle Paul said to the church at Thessalonica at the close of his epistle to them: "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV). You mean we should always be joyful, pray constantly, and give thanks no matter what situation we may find ourselves in? Yes!!!
Remember, true love cannot be bought, and true happiness cannot be found in material things. It is only in Christ that true blessings are found (Eph.1:3). As Christians, we must realize the true blessings of life. While we may have to “do without” from time to time, we will always have Jesus; He promises to never leave us nor forsake us (Heb.13:5).
Tis the season to be thankful!

- Shane Robinson, preaches for the Lake Hills church of Christ in Chattanooga, TN. He may be contacted at shane@lakehillschurchofchrist.org or through their website at
http://www.lakehillschurchofchrist.org/


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