Godly Gals ~ Catharine Gaither

The count down has officially begun. “I wish it were Christmas!” my daughter blurts out. “Why?” I asked with a slight to do list panic in my mind, “It feels homey and comfy.”
With the feeling of home and comfy, why wouldn’t Hannah count down the days until Christmas?

It seemed light years away that I used to mark off the days until Christmas. Now that I am an adult, the sugar plums that used to dance in my mind turned to multiple lists. Racing to get them done, I wonder if I will ever get caught up by Christmas. No wonder I get stressed.

What if I chose a different way to getting things done? An approach that deletes unnecessary emotional clutter from my life? One that brings my entire family joy before, during and after the season of Christmas.

In Ecclesiastes 3:12 Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived said, “I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live.” (amp) Simply said, set goals that are worth while; ones that make you happy and use them to do good for others. In other words, use the gifts God gave each person to give and receive joy.

After I read Ecclesiastes 3:12, I wrote down on a piece of paper all the things that bring me joy. For a moment or two I sat there in wonder.

Could it be that simple? Making a list of the things I like and offering them to others bring me joy! My spirit felt the same as my daughter’s at Christmas, “comfy and homey.”

I felt God sitting beside me. I was dwelling in His love. Unannounced, the fruit of the spirit showed up. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and self-control.

If you are desiring a simple approach to joy, might I suggest you take the same challenge. Make a list of all the things that bring you joy. Then offer them throughout your holiday season. See if you discover pure joy and peace that is available only with God. As a result, I am sure you will experience a comfy and homey Christmas Season.

Come back NEXT Thursday to meet another Godly Gal, Shonda Whitworth, founder of “Engrafted by Grace“.

Also…as of right now I am taking submissions for Godly Gals in 2010. If you would like to be considered for the Godly Gals series please email me at [email protected] for a copy of the submission guidelines. I am looking forward to hearing from you and celebrating all these incredible Godly Gals! ~ Melissa