Thriving by Christmas. Advent Devotionals for Joy, Peace and Connection

I wrote this devotional for St Mary's, my church, one Advent and people really enjoyed it and told me to publish it. I realised that most people don't buy devotionals for Advent so I reshaped it for any time in the year. This means that "Thriving by Christmas" and the "Thriving devotionals" have some overlapping content so I suggest you buy one of the two. I am writing another devotional for my church which I will publish in 2025/26.

As we enter the season of Advent—a time of anticipation, preparation, and hope—many Christians find themselves struggling with disconnection, discouragement, burnout, and a lack of the very joy this season promises. Whether you're living out your vocation in the workplace, the home, or retirement—whether you are seeking to make a difference in your "nine to five," or a passionate activist fighting for justice, or a gentle caregiver offering compassion to those in need, or a faithful teacher sharing wisdom and knowledge—the challenges of life and discipleship can dim the light of this sacred season.

But what if this Advent season could be different? What if there was a way to cultivate the emotional maturity and resilience needed to navigate these challenges with greater ease and grace—arriving at Christmas Day truly thriving? What if you could learn to stay grounded in God's love during this season of waiting, even in the midst of difficult circumstances?

Enter the Life Model, a valuable approach developed by Jim Wilder that outlines 19 essential skills for a thriving Christian life. By mastering these skills throughout Advent, you can build the capacity to weather life's storms, maintain a deep connection with God during this season of waiting, and experience the fullness of joy and purpose that He desires for you—arriving at Christmas truly prepared to celebrate His birth.

In this transformative Advent devotional, you'll embark on a four-week journey of growth and discovery as you explore the Life Model's essential skills. Through daily reflections, biblical insights, and practical applications designed for the season of waiting and preparation, you'll learn how to:

• Develop a strong foundation of joy and resilience

• Cultivate healthy relationships and emotional connections

• Navigate difficult emotions with grace and wisdom

• Deepen your intimacy with God and hear His voice more clearly

• Become a more effective and compassionate leader in your community

Whether you're a ministry leader preparing for Christmas services, a lifelong believer seeking deeper meaning this Advent, or someone who's new to the faith and wants to understand what this season truly means, this devotional is designed to meet you where you are and equip you with the tools you need to thrive—not just survive—this Christmas season.

But the impact of these skills extends far beyond personal growth. As you develop greater emotional maturity and resilience, you'll be better equipped to serve others with the love, kindness, and compassion that Christ modelled for us. You'll become a beacon of hope and healing in a world that desperately needs it.

We've seen the profound impact of these skills first-hand, both in our own lives and in the lives of those we serve. From therapists and ministers to everyday believers, countless individuals have experienced the joy and freedom that comes from building a stronger, more resilient faith.

So if you're ready to make this Advent season one of true preparation and transformation—arriving at Christmas with a heart full of joy and resilience—join us on this four-week journey of growth and discovery. Together, we'll unlock the secret to a joyful and resilient faith, one day at a time, so you'll be truly thriving by Christmas morning.