Conquering Sadness and Grief This Christmas

Are you battling sadness or grief this Christmas? Hope is here. Learn to conquer feelings of hopelessness or depression and experience peace and joy.

Christmas is supposed to be the most joyous time of year, and for many, it certainly is. However, for many others, it is a season of deep loneliness and sorrow. That empty place at the table or those missing packages under the tree leave a void that cannot be denied. Or perhaps a promise or dream not realized has stirred feelings of sadness or disappointment this Christmas season.

You may be experiencing the loss of a child, spouse, parent, marriage or relationship, and this time of year only accentuates the pain you’re feeling, maybe even to unbearable proportions. Or even the idea that yet another year has gone by without reaching that financial goal, overcoming illness or realizing a family dream. You may feel like no one understands your grief, but there isSomeone who comprehends the depth of your sorrow.

That’s why when Jesus died on the cross, He defeated the curse of sadness and grief, so we wouldn’t have to face a life of sadness or pain. But the enemy still uses grief and sorrow to steal our hope and joy…if we let him. Disguised as a simple, “healthy” emotions, little by little, grief and sorrow drain you dry. They are devious and destructive, and they’re the constant companions of death itself.

There’s good news! You don’t have to put up with these emotions any more than you have to put up with sin or sickness or disease. As a believer who’s been redeemed by the blood of Jesus, you can learn how to resist the enemy and experience the joy of the Lord this Christmas!

How can you resist sadness or sorrow? You stand against it, just as you would stand against any other attack of the devil. You make a decision to “sorrow not” (1 Thessalonians 4:13, KJV).Once you do, you can be sure the devil will begin to attack your emotions. But you just say, “No. I won’t receive that. I take authority over these feelings in Jesus’ Name. I’ve given my body as a sacrifice well-pleasing to the Lord, and I won’t partake of anything but His joy.” Then, start speaking the Word and praising out loud.

It could be many rugged days of resisting until those sorry spirits are gone. But peace, joy and freedom are worth the effort! What you need to know is this: You’re going to have to stand against grief and sorrow. They don’t belong to you. They’re not from your heavenly Father. You may have to walk the floor all night long. But instead of worrying and crying, walk the floor and quote the Word until those heavy spirits leave and the joy of the Lord comes.

This Christmas season, if you have discouragement, grief or sadness of any kind, here are some steps you can take to conquer sadness and grief.

Resist the devil. When he attempts to discourage you, declare aloud that you have been redeemed from depression, discouragement, sorrow and grief by the blood of Jesus.

Learn more about The Power of the Blood of Jesus here.

Surround yourself with supportive friends and family. This isn’t the time to hang around negative people! Choose to spend time with those who will uplift and encourage you. Start a new tradition you can look forward to, and even honor an old tradition that will bring back positive memories.
Volunteer to help families in need this Christmas season.This puts the focus on others, which will lift your spirits, as you carry out the work of the Lord and make a positive difference in your community.

No matter what is going on in your life—God loves you and He has plans for VICTORY in your life. Don’t settle for anything less. Don’t let the devil talk you out of the peace and joy that belong to you. You have a great future ahead of you. Lay hold of it this Christmas. Hold on tight and don’t let go. Then, “God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him” (Romans 15:13).

Learn how to overcome loss and live victoriously in this video with Kenneth Copeland and Keith Moore.