Podcasts about simple christmas

Welcome to Simple Christmas with Rusty George!The Purpose of Waiting: Discovering Hope in the Waiting RoomIn this episode, Pastor Rusty George explores the discomfort and frustration commonly associated with waiting. Drawing parallels from everyday life and biblical examples, he delves into how waiting is a crucial part of our faith journey. He illustrates how figures like Abraham, Joseph, and David underwent prolonged periods of waiting that ultimately deepened their trust, refined their character, and redirected their futures. Pastor George emphasizes that waiting is not wasted time but a period of divine preparation. He offers practical advice on maintaining hope through trust in God, staying connected to community, and serving others. The episode ties in the significance of the Advent season, highlighting the 'candle of hope' as a symbol of confident expectation based on God's proven track record. As we navigate our own periods of waiting, Pastor George reassures us that we are not alone; God is with us, filling us with joy and peace.00:00 Introduction: The Agony of Waiting00:27 The Biblical Perspective on Waiting01:18 Modern Culture's Impatience01:45 Personal Struggles and Lessons Learned02:29 Biblical Examples of Waiting03:32 God's Purpose in the Waiting05:56 Practical Steps to Embrace Waiting08:36 Conclusion: Hope in the Waiting

The Holiday Hustle starts earlier every year. Before the last of the Halloween candy has been eaten, stores are piping in Christmas music and flashing “limited time only” sales. The commercials tell us that the magic of Christmas comes in a gift bag or a decorated box. We scroll through picture-perfect tablescapes on social media, and somewhere deep down we start to feel like maybe we're not doing enough. Or maybe we're doing it wrong. If you've had all you can take of the Holiday Hustle, listen in and learn a few tips on how to slow down, breathe easier, and actually enjoy your holidays. Send us a textSupport the showThe Farm Wife (website)Let's Visit! (email)Amazon Shop PageGreat Products by The Farm Wife:The Simple Life WorkbookSimple Life Home Finance BundleThe Art of HomemakingFind other helpful Simple Life Products in The Farm Wife ShopDo you want to learn more about living a simple life? Then a great place to start is with the books in my Simple Life Series! Living a Simple Life on the Farm (my story) The Search for a Simple Life How to Cook a Possum: Yesterday's Skills & Frugal Tips for a Simple Life (don't worry – this isn't a cookbook!)Faith & a Simple Life FICTION The Strangers Room

FEATURING: Jim & Martha Brangenberg ORGANIZATION: iWork4Him Ministries Christmas is meant to be full of meaning – not just memories. In this special Christmas episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg share a simple, practical challenge for retirees: use the Christmas season as an opportunity to love the neighbors God has already placed around you. For many retired neighbors, Christmas can be quiet, lonely, or even difficult – especially with physical limitations, tighter budgets, or family living far away. But those challenges also open the door for beautiful ministry opportunities right where you live. In this episode, Jim and Martha remind us that loving your neighbors doesn’t require big events or elaborate plans. Often, the most meaningful moments come through small, intentional acts: Sharing a plate of cookies Inviting neighbors over for dessert or coffee Hosting a casual gathering in your home or garage Delivering leftovers after Christmas Simply learning your neighbors’ names and saying, “We’re here if you need anything” They also share fun, low-pressure ideas like neighborhood gift games (“you’ve been socked!”), community parades, cookie exchanges, and simple games that build shared memories and open doors for deeper relationships. Most importantly, this conversation points us back to the true reason for the season – Jesus. Christmas creates a natural, gentle way to share faith, stories, and hope with the people God has placed in our everyday lives. Your Christmas Challenge: Before the year ends, choose one simple way to love a neighbor. One visit. One invitation. One shared moment. Let God do the rest. From the iRetire4Him family to yours, Merry Christmas! And don’t forget that you can give yourself or a friend the gift of purpose in retirement. Email Jim@iWork4Him.com to request your free copy of iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – just pay shipping (US residents only). P.S. – Read the first chapter for free! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rediscovering Advent: Light in the DarknessIn this episode, journey back to the fourth century and explore the origins of Advent. Discover how early church leaders grappled with preparing for Christ's coming amidst societal turmoil and how their profound question of 'how to prepare for God becoming human' still resonates today. Understand the staggering impact of depression, anxiety, and political polarization in 2025 and how Isaiah's promise of light offers hope. Learn about the roots and significance of Advent as a season of active waiting, not just for Christ's birth, but for His promised return. Watch and be inspired to embrace Advent as a time of acknowledging darkness, practicing active anticipation, and keeping Christ as the blazing light in our modern world.00:00 Setting the Scene: The Fourth Century Church00:54 Modern Struggles and Ancient Questions02:06 Isaiah's Prophecy: Light in Darkness03:31 The Messiah's Unexpected Arrival04:57 The Early Church's Waiting Game06:06 The Birth of Advent07:03 Advent's Relevance Today08:38 Practical Steps for Advent09:39 The Promise of Light

Christmas doesn't have to be complicated to be magical. Here are some easy ideas for Christmas Day dinner and more to keep Christmas simple and magical. Think back on your favorite Christmas memories. Are they memories of Pinterest-perfect tables or complicated dinners? The most treasured memories come from slowing down, simplifying, and enjoying the time spent together. This post is all about ideas for Christmas Day dinner and other ways to simplify the holidays. Whether you are a work from home mom, homeschool mom, or exhausted just thinking about the holiday hustle. This post is your invitation to create a calm, meaningful, and delicious Christmas Day.  Here are some easy, memorable, and stress-free ideas for Christmas Day dinner.Show notes and links: https://lifeunboxed.blog/ideas-for-christmas-day-dinner/ Find your tribe. Join the online community: Rebel Moms Club for Working Homeschool Mom:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/rebelmomsclub Grab your guide today! The Momtrepreneur's Guide to Homeschool Curriculum: https://lifeunboxed.blog/homeschool-curriculum/ RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW:Take the Overwhelm Out of the Holiday Season: https://youtu.be/692xU1cUFcwEasy Christmas Ideas: https://www.pinterest.com/LifeUnboxed/easy-christmas-ideas/Christmas Favorites:  https://www.amazon.com/Fill-Out-Recipe-Book-Christmas/dp/B0DHY1F7FY5 Tips to Stress Less this Christmas Season: https://lifeunboxed.blog/5-tips-to-stress-less-during-the-holidays25 Best Christmas Books You Can't Miss https://lifeunboxed.blog/best-christmas-books/ Journals and Notebooks for Mom + Homeschool Resources: https://geni.us/Jodiethemom ~~~MOMS RUN ON COFFEE. BUY JODIE THE MOM ONE.https://ko-fi.com/lifeunboxedblog ABOUT JODIE THE MOM:To learn more about Jodie, please visit: https://lifeunboxed.blog/about-the-mom-work-from-home-mom/FOLLOW JODIE:Website: https://lifeunboxed.blog/Business: https://www.jodierperry.com/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/LifeUnboxedFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LifeunboxedblogInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeunboxedblog/Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-647543YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifeunboxedblogMusic for the intro/outro is Like it Hot by Tenoaxehttp://teknoaxe.com/Link_Code_3.php?q=1579 Disclaimer: This video and description contain affiliate links. If you purchase using one of these links, I make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me keeps things free for you, and who doesn't love free stuff. Support the show

We still can't believe it - Marsha Mason (The Goodbye Girl, Chapter Two) is on the podcast! With 4 Oscar nominations and 2 Golden Globe wins, she's a true icon. Middle-fans will know her as Frankie's mom, Pat Spence, and in this episode, Marsha helps us break down episode 210, “A Simple Christmas.” She shares her thoughts on Pat's unforgettable frosting cap debut, stories from her life with Neil Simon, and even reveals where she keeps her Golden Globes.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the famed yellow Cross-Country hoodie, a crew-neck sweatshirt, or a t-shirt... we got you! They also come in a variety of colors and are so, so comfy. This merch a symbol of our shared love for the show and our podcast community. And we hope you love it as much as we do.Want extended episodes and video? That's all happening at Patreon.com/MiddlingPod. You can subscribe monthly or purchase one off episodes!Wanna chat with us?! Click HERE to leave us a voicemail with your questions or comments. You could just hear it on the podcast...All that and much more, so let's get to Middling! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the gifts you can give yourself this Christmas!Send us a textSupport the showThe Farm Wife (website)Let's Visit! (email)Amazon Shop PageGreat Products by The Farm Wife:The Simple Life WorkbookSimple Life Home Finance BundleThe Art of HomemakingFind other helpful Simple Life Products in The Farm Wife ShopDo you want to learn more about living a simple life? Then a great place to start is with the books in my Simple Life Series! Living a Simple Life on the Farm (my story) The Search for a Simple Life How to Cook a Possum: Yesterday's Skills & Frugal Tips for a Simple Life (don't worry – this isn't a cookbook!)Faith & a Simple Life

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6:10 Text: Simple Christmas Meals 12/19/24 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Weekly Devotion

Discover the secret to a meaningful, simple Christmas by finding true contentment in every circumstance.

Caleb Drahosh Joseph was a man from the line of David. He was a just, or righteous, man. When his betrothed was found to be with child, he resolved to divorce her quietly. But the conception was a result of the life-giving work of the Holy Spirit as the angel would explain to him. This is a key indicator that the One Mary carried was the Christ. And Joseph, being just, acted according to the Word of the Lord.

December is the perfect month to take a break from formal homeschooling and integrate Christmas into your kids' learning. The place to start is by learning simple Christmas around the world traditions that you can use in your December homeschool.My friend, Bonnie Rose, offers some easy and simple ideas you can use this year. In fact, I suggest you choose 4 countries this year. One for each week … then choose 2 Christmas around the world traditions for that country to do one week. Use the four weeks of Advent do learn about four countries and their Christmas around the world traditions.In this episode, you'll discover:✅ 2 very simple activities you can use to learn how others around the world celebrate Christmas✅ How other countries use a Christmas tree, when they don't have pine trees✅ What type of nativity set to use with your kids✅ The number one thing that ties believers around the world at ChristmasResources Mentioned:Christmas Recipes & CraftsChristmas Homeschool Units (50% off through 12/31/24): Bonnie Rose Hudson is the owner and publisher of WriteBonnieRose. She serves homeschoolers and home educators around the world by creating practical resources that are fun, affordable, and easy to use. She has written for numerous publications and educational websites and has hundreds of resources in many subject areas for preschool through high school on WriteBonnieRose.com.

Simple Christmas November 30th & December 1st, 2024  - Pastor Josh Shook LOVE FIRST SPEND LESS GIVE MORE BELIEVE FULLY Advent Adventure Devotional 21 Days to Christmas Scriptures:John 3:16-18, Isaiah 55:2, Philippians 4:12a, 2 Corinthians 8:1-4, Luke 6:38, 2 Corinthians 5:16-20 Topics: Faith, Love, Honesty

Even when living a Simple Life, all of the preparations that lead up to a holiday can be hectic and exhausting. Yes, you've done everything you can think of to make it easier. You've scaled back, delegated, planned carefully, have created quite a few handmade gifts, and the cookie dough is in the freezer, just waiting to be baked. But there is still a lot to do. It's easy to feel ‘scattered and stretched' instead of ‘merry and bright' during this time. But there is a way you can twinkle more. In order to do that, you need to set aside roughly an hour, and do some ‘pre-holiday' preparation, and assemble a December Survival Tool Kit. Listen in to see what that is, and the fun things you can add to it! Send us a textSupport the showThe Farm Wife (website)Let's Visit! (email)Amazon Shop PageGreat Products by The Farm Wife:The Simple Life WorkbookSimple Life Home Finance BundleThe Art of HomemakingFind other helpful Simple Life Products in The Farm Wife ShopDo you want to learn more about living a simple life? Then a great place to start is with the books in my Simple Life Series! Living a Simple Life on the Farm (my story) The Search for a Simple Life How to Cook a Possum: Yesterday's Skills & Frugal Tips for a Simple Life (don't worry – this isn't a cookbook!)Faith & a Simple Life

One of the things I love to do is help make life easy for you which is why I have created some pretty amazing Christmas lesson plans!! These lessons are designed to keep your life simple while still giving your child a great education.   Lesson plans include- read aloud, memorization, arts, book of poems, science, history, and writing. Make sure to check out today's episode about keeping it simple and to hear more about my Christmas lesson plans.

Is it too early to talk about Christmas? Maybe, but I am going for it anyway.A slower, simpler Christmas doesn't mean missing out on the joy and fun — it actually means intentionally choosing what matters most to you and letting go of the stress that usually comes along for the ride. Whether it's baking cookies with the family, spending an evening in cosy pyjamas watching your favourite Netflix Christmas movies, or opting for meaningful, handmade gifts instead of running yourself ragged at getting gifts, a slow Christmas is about making space for what fills you up. The best part? It brings back the wonder and warmth that sometimes gets lost in the chaos.Join a Slow & Simple Christmas Grab The Slow Business BundleFollow me on InstagramFind me on SubstackDownload The Busy Person's Guide to Slowing DownAffiliate Codes:Get £15 off a Riverford Organic seasonal veg boxSave £10 on your first order with Welleasy use code SLOWLIVINGCOLLECTIVE10My favourite recommended Natural Living Products To hear more, visit theslowlivingcollective.substack.com

The Magi visit Jesus and God expands our ideas of who he came to save.

Luke 2 NIVWhile they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

John is born and Zechariah praises God.

Merry Christmas! Join us as Pastor Kurt Notehelfer wraps up our series, A Simple Christmas.

Want to sing for your family, church, or office Christmas party but don't know what song to choose last minute? Let me help you out with a few simple pieces, plus some tips for how to sing them with ease! The great thing is, you can apply these tips to any song you sing moving forward. This episode, I'm sharing some songs that are quick to learn and I'm linking some backing tracks you can use too.   Let me know which ones you sing this Christmas!   "Silent Night" - Lower Voices (in the lower octave) vs. Higher/Middle Voices "Joy to the World" - Slower version vs. Faster version "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"   Happy singing and keep creating!

Welcome to Faith Church Online! Love is something we all desire and need. The good news is this: we are already loved! God's love is not self-centered, in fact His love is sacrificial and draws us in to Himself. Pastor Jeremy teaches us that love is an action and that love is a choice. 1 John 4 teaches us that God is love and if we are to be like God, we are to love others.We hope this serves you well! Merry Christmas!

It is the simple people who are the first to get to see this newborn king: Shepherds. Most people, even in town there in Bethlehem, had no idea the world was being changed by the birth of this child. We honor the glory and humility of the incarnation when our celebrations are easy, simple, and include the “least of these” and outcasts. In this week's Message of the week, we continue our worship series titled "A Simple Christmas" with a message from Pastor Jen Tyler. She shares from Luke 2 and highlights the simple celebration that took place at the birth of Jesus.

A Simple Christmas

Join us as Pastor Kurt Notehelfer continues our series, A Simple Christmas.

Welcome to Faith Church Online. “Good tidings of great joy” is that God came down to live with us, die for us and will comeback for us one day. As a Christian, we rejoice because Jesus has delivered us from sin's penalty and one day will completely deliver us from its reality. Come celebrate JOY with us!We hope this serves you well.

We take a look at the second promise of birth in Luke and how God is doing something new in the promise of Jesus.

Join us as Pastor Dean Soule continues our series, A Simple Christmas.

Crystal Paine is the creator of the amazing website MoneySavingMom.com. WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOUR FAMILY SAVORS THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS?To savor the meaning of Christmas, Crystal Payne's family engages in simple yet meaningful traditions. They use an Advent calendar, specifically Ann Voskamp's, which includes daily devotionals, to focus on the spiritual significance of the season. Additionally, they undertake a family giving project, where each member contributes and decides on a cause to support, fostering a sense of ownership and generosity.They use an Advent calendar with daily devotionals to focus on the meaning of Christmas.The family partakes in a giving project, where each member contributes and selects a cause.These activities help instill a sense of ownership and remind them of the true spirit of Christmas. WHAT ARE SOME PRACTICAL WAYS TO MANAGE CHRISTMAS SPENDING AND GIFT GIVING?When managing Christmas spending and gift-giving, it's crucial to start by determining who you need to buy for and align this with your budget. Consider simplifying gift-giving by choosing family or experience gifts. Crystal also suggests utilizing her website's guide for unique and inexpensive gift ideas that can suit anyone. These gifts can be homemade or experience-based, adding a personal touch while staying budget-friendly.Evaluate who you need to buy for and align this with your budget.Consider giving family or experience gifts to simplify the process.Utilize inexpensive, homemade gift ideas that are personal and unique. HOW CAN YOU STRETCH YOUR CHRISTMAS BUDGET?To stretch your Christmas budget, start with a clear budget and consider using cash only for purchases, including online shopping. Crystal suggests saving for Christmas throughout the year and earning gift cards for additional savings. Homemade gifts, like baked goods or DIY projects, are also great ways to give meaningful presents without overspending.Start with a clear budget and stick to cash-only purchases.Save throughout the year and earn gift cards for extra savings.Consider homemade gifts for a personal touch that aligns with your budget. WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR FAMILY TOGETHERNESS AND ORGANIZATION DURING CHRISTMAS?For family togetherness, Crystal recommends creating a "December Bucket List" where each family member chooses one or two special activities for the month, ensuring everyone's interests are considered. For organization, she advises writing everything down, perhaps using Google Calendar, and dividing up tasks among family members. Other suggestions include wrapping up Christmas books for daily reading and setting aside a special day for immediate family celebration.Create a "December Bucket List" for family members to choose special activities.Use tools like Google Calendar for organization and write down all tasks.Involve family members in preparations and consider unique traditions like reading wrapped Christmas books. ANY LAST-MINUTE TIPS FOR STAYING ORGANIZED DURING THE HOLIDAYS?To stay organized during the holidays, Crystal emphasizes the importance of simplifying and asking, "How can I make this easier?" She recommends writing down all tasks to clear your mind, seeking help from family members, and planning ahead for meals and events. Embracing shortcuts and preparing in advance, such as pre-making meals, can significantly reduce stress and enhance enjoyment of the holiday season.Simplify processes and ask how to make tasks easier.Write down all tasks and delegate responsibilities among family members.Plan meals and events in advance and embrace shortcuts to reduce holiday stress. ON TODAY'S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:  As a potential first-time homebuyer, I am wondering whether it's wise to take out a loan to buy a house in the current high Sarasota housing market, or should we wait?I will be losing my job soon and have a 401k with about $24,000 in it; should I roll it into an individual IRA or into my spouse's retirement plan? RESOURCES MENTIONED:FidelitySchwab Intelligent PortfoliosSound Mind Investing Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.  Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Christmas is still a few weeks away. So, there’s time to stop, take a deep breath, and get it right this year. On today's Faith & Finance Live, host Rob West will welcome Crystal Paine to share ways you can keep your focus on what’s really important by celebrating a simple Christmas. Then Rob will tackle your questions on various financial topics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Faith Church Online! "Do not be afraid." The common greeting given to Mary, Joseph and the Angels when the Angel of the Lord appeared to them. Why? Because fear is opposite the peace God is offering. God's peace is not circumstantial, but eternal. We hope this serves you well...Merry Christmas!

Michelle and David discuss plans for "a simple Christmas at Covenant" for Advent 2023. More info in our blog.

 Get ready to jingle all the way into the festive spirit!

Welcome to Faith Church Online. Today we begin our Christmas teaching series as we discuss HOPE. Our greatest hope does not come from a store and is not found in someTHING, but rather it is found in someONE; Jesus. Our greatest hope is an eternal future based on a faith in Jesus and the promises of God. Merry Christmas!We hope this serves you well!

If the thought of thoroughly decorating the halls has ever felt more like a burden than a blessing to you, then listen in. In this episode, you'll learn my secret to simple Christmas decor through five simple steps to winterize your home decoratively first. Your home will feel in keeping with the season November through March. What's your decorating era?: Take the quiz.Myquillyn's Winter Pinterest Board Get your own copy of Myquillyn's last book, Welcome HomeDonna Hay Christmas (Australia) Disney+ Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day2023 Gift Guide

Jodi Rosser shares how walking through a series of losses took her faith deeper and brought hope for her hurting heart. 2 Corinthians 1:3 (NIV)“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. https://livesteadyon.com/Email Angie at: steadyonpodcast@gmail.comFacebook: @livesteadyonInstagram: @angiebaughman421 Looking for something not listed? It's probably here: https://linktr.ee/livesteadyon https://jodirosser.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jodi.rosser/IG: https://www.instagram.com/jodi.rosser/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jodirosser/Twitter: https://twitter.com/RosserJodiPodcast: Depth Jodi's book, "Depth: Growing Through Heartbreak to Strength" is available wherever books are sold Read my contribution to Jodi's Heartbreak to Strength blog here:https://jodirosser.com/trust-god-is-not-finished-with-your-story/ Listen to Steady On episodes with Mary Rooney Armand, who introduced me to Jodi:Circles of Friendship with Mary Rooney Armand https://livesteadyon.com/2020/07/25/guest-interview-circles-of-friendship/Simple Christmas with Mary Rooney Armandhttps://livesteadyon.com/2020/12/23/episode-31-simple-christmas-with-mary-rooney-armand/ Listen to the Steady On episode with Lisa Appelo:https://livesteadyon.com/2022/09/28/episode-123-life-can-be-good-again-with-lisa-appelo/ Jodi mentionedLife Can Be Good Again with Lisa AppeloGood Boundaries and Goodbyes by Lysa TerkeurstGrieving the Child I Never Knew by Kathe WunnenbergPrayer Starters by Suzanne EllerThe Mended Heart Suzanne Eller40 Days of Decrease by Alicia Britt CholeGirls with Swords by Lisa BevereWhen God Doesn't Fix It by Laura StoryAnonymous: Jesus' Hidden Years... and Yours by Dr. Alicia Britt CholePrayer Starters Podcast with Suzanne EllerGlory Baby (song) by Watermark Theme music:Heartwarming by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3864-heartwarmingLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Luke 2:4-7

Luke 2:8-15

Are you ready to usher in the awe and wonder of Christmas, or is this season hard for you? No matter how you feel about Christmas, we all face the real danger of missing the true and simple meaning of the season. Pastor Cordel Robinson takes us back to the simplicity of Christmas with five Christmas truths about Jesus. Simply put, Christmas is when the Son of God became a man so that men and women could become beloved sons and daughters of God. May we treasure this treasure throughout the whole Christmas season!

Christmas is almost upon us- have you simplified yet? Tune in for some tangible insprational tips to feeling less stressed + stretched this holiday season (and beyond). I also give an update about the future of this podcast! I hope you join the conversation! Connect with me: https://laurennicolejones.com/about/ Books I am loving right now: The Ministry Of Motherhood: https://amzn.to/3UUcwRf 10 Gifts of Heart: https://amzn.to/3WgJwEc Be Anxious For Nothing: https://amzn.to/3VYbkxj      

It really is possible to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year SIMPLY, but only if you are intentional about drawing boundaries based on your family's values. And you can be intentional about noticing and appreciating the good things in your life. The psychological term for this is "savoring" and choosing to stop, see and savor the good things in life increases happiness and fulfillment. CONNECT: Website: https://fearlessmom.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fearless_mom/?hl=en Conference: https://fearlessmom.com/2023conference/

Luke 1:46-55

Christmas is upon us and we could easily drown in great ideas. There are gourmet chocolates that could be made and parties that could be arranged and exquisitely wrapped presents suggested in magazines and on Pinterest. Great ideas are on display everywhere. Not to mention all the fabulous ways to keep Christ in Christmas with the way you celebrate with your family. How in the world does one keep Christmas simple? Join Sharon and Nicole for some advice on doing the ONE thing well. Continue reading Episode 93 - A Sweet Selah Simple Christmas at Sweet Selah Ministries.

Isaiah 9:2, 6-7

Episode Summary:  Christmas time can be so stressful. Would you like to experience calm in the midst of the holiday chaos? What if I told you that you could enjoy a more simple Christmas and, in doing so, reconnect with the real reason we celebrate the holiday? Join me with Tama Fortner as we talk about how to have a Simple Christmas. Quotables from the episode: “Simple Christmas” is the book I wish someone had written for me when my children were little, before I had all these life experiences under my belt. So many things about “how Christmas is supposed to be” just didn't work for my family. I want to give moms permission to chart their own course, while also providing some thoughts to draw them closer to God and His Son.  It's important to learn to be more thoughtful and intentional about what we allow into our life and our family time, especially at the holidays. Just because we've always done this or everybody does that, doesn't mean it's right for us this year. As you launch into this holiday season and start filling up calendars and to-do lists, ask yourself three questions: Does it make me smile? Does it make my loved ones smile? (Because aren't those the things that makes us mamas smile?) And, most importantly, does it make God smile? When you filter everything through these three questions, the things that really matter quickly rise to the top.  If a holiday tradition is no longer working for your family, kick it to the curb! The need to keep up with what everyone else is doing is overwhelming. Give yourself permission to simplify, to let some things go to savor the most important things this holiday. Recognize that as a child or daughter of God, you are loved regardless of what you do, how perfectly wrapped the gifts are, or how beautiful the holiday table is. When you reach yours or others' expectations for yourself, the bar moves, the level increases, and you're under more stress to continually be doing even more. Always start with reading the Bible! That is where God talks to us, where His will, His way, and His peace are found. Quiet time can be hard to carve out for moms, so I suggest that quiet time doesn't have to look “perfect”—with a cozy chair, coffee, Bible, and an hour of uninterrupted silence. Sometimes quiet time is a state of mind that we carry with us into the chaos. And sometimes it has to be snatched up in a moment here and there. So keep a Bible with you always. I love an actual paper Bible, but apps on the phone are so convenient to soak up a verse waiting in carpool or whenever you have a moment.  When we start our day off in the word, and allow Him to set our intentions, we will get done what HE deems important for the day, and we will feel more at peace. Jesus's ministry was centered around interruptions. When we allow ourself to be interrupted and look for the possibility in those interruptions, we will find the people in need and what they need, so that we're accomplishing God's to-do list for the day. Let other moms be good at what they are good at without the need to compare yourself to them. You'll shine in the areas that you are good at. Consider what it is that you want at the end of the holiday season, and then your to-do list will begin to reflect what you ultimately desire. Scripture References: Luke 2:19 (NIV) — Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV) — You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Luke 1:47–48 (NIV) — My spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. Acts 17:28 (NIV) -- For in him we live and move and have our being. Recommended Resources:  Simply Christmas: A Busy Mom's Guide to Reclaiming the Peace of the Holidays: A Devotional by Tama Fortner Christmas is Coming by Tama Fortner Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids by Sarah Young, adapted by Tama Fortner 100 Things God Loves About You: Simple Reminders for When You Need Them Most by Tama Fortner Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Breaking Anxiety's Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety's Grip Free Study Guide  Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety's Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Tama Fortner: Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Breaking Anxiety's Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube Guest: Tama is an ECPA award-winning author with more than forty titles to her credit. She is the writer behind the bestselling Indescribable for Kids series with Louie Giglio, as well as a number of books in the Jesus Calling children's line, including the wildly successful Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids, which has sold more than 1,000,000 copies to date. Tama has collaborated with such well-known authors as Max Lucado, Rebekah Lyons, and Emily Ley to create inspirational books for all ages.  Tama has been working as a freelance writer, ghostwriter, and editor for more than twenty-five years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from University of the Cumberlands and a master's degree from Appalachian State University. Tama and her husband have two children who are growing up much too fast for their mama's liking. They live on the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee, where they enjoy sampling new restaurants, watching old movies, and eating lots of popcorn with far too much butter and salt. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson    

I can't believe it's almost Christmas time again. I feel like we went from picking apples in the fall straight to snow blizzards and chatter about the holidays. As they are fast approaching I wanted to get ahead of planning and simplifying. Join the conversation on how you can make this year's Christmas season simple, intentional, and less stressful!