Today's advent devotion was written by Bob Kohari:

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.   2 Tim 1:7

During Advent Praise Week, as Christians, do you find yourself wishing others “Merry Christmas” or do you feel more obliged to just say “Happy Holidays?” This has been an ongoing controversy, especially for faithful Christians who simply want to wish someone good will with sweetness and sincerity and also lovingly share the Gospel message of Christ’s birth.

In our Bible verse above, Paul lovingly encourages Timothy to remember the qualities necessary to be a faithful minister of the Gospel and use the gifts he has been given with boldness.

He gives three characteristics of an effective Christian leader: power, love, and self-discipline.  If we embrace these traits and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in our hearts and lives each day, I believe we can more fully exhibit the “fruit” of the Spirit as we share the Good News with others.

Remember, God left us with the responsibility and privilege of sharing the message of hope and salvation with the world.  In fact, the Bible tells us to “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15).

However, if we allow people or institutions to intimidate us, we neutralize our effectiveness to share the Gospel. We must always remember the Holy Spirit can help us overcome our fear of what someone might ever say or do to us.  So, don’t get caught up on whether your faith is strong enough to share; just step out in faith and together let’s share the Good News of the impending arrival of our Messiah with everyone in God’s kingdom here on earth. (Matthew 5:16)

Father God, we thank you for offering your love, salvation and eternal life to anyone who truly wants to know your Son Jesus. We ask for the Holy Spirit’s power to lovingly and boldly share the Good News of Christ’s approaching birthday with everyone in the world today.  In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen and a very “Merry Christmas” to all.