Christmas Eve

Today was tough. It was a lot tougher than I thought it would be.  Temptations were strong and I did a decent job of keeping busy. I sent a text to a friend for prayer.  
This Christmas season has been a lot tougher than I planned. I started out this month thinking it would be one way, doing certain things, lots of the fun things that people say they are going to do in the Christmas season, but rarely follow through on.  But things changed and plans were then altered. New plans were made. I spent a lot of this month hanging out with my mom, my all-time favorite person.  I spent a lot of time having one on one conversations. Catching up with people.  Rekindling some friendships. It wasn't a miserable month, but it was definitely unexpected. And it was tough.  
Isn't that how tough times go? Rarely do you see them coming and even if you do, they are a lot harder than you thought. At least that's true for me.
And today was just one of those day where the storm I'm standing is was a little stronger. Life was crazy this week and I had very little real down time or normalcy, so guess what got put on the back burner? My time with Jesus. It felt the ramifications of that today. After baking (chocolate cheesecake, macaroons, fudge, and other things), I had some down time and decided to excuse myself from the family and spend time with the Lord.  I loved reading what my devotional by Beth Moore had and Jesus Calling.  Beth was talking about Barnabas and how encouraging he was. I couldn't help but be reminded of how blessed I've been with friends, especially this month, who have been my encouragement this month. If you are one of those people reading this, I love you and thank you for your love.  I am blessed by you. Jesus calling was about the Hope of Glory, Jesus. I was reminded that in this storm, I will win no matter the outcome. No matter the ramifications. No matter the loss. No matter the changes that are happening. No matter that changes I need to make. I win. I win because the Holy Spirit dwells in me and reigns in this broken, miserable heart of mine. Oh Father, I celebrate the birth of your son. I celebrate your arrival Jesus. I celebrate You. Thank you for being my hope. Thank you that my eyes were opened some 12 years ago to Your glory.  No matter what comes, You are here with me God.
Today was tough. I survived. I survived in the arms of my Savior. Just like I will tomorrow and every other day the Lord grants me to live. 
Today was tough and I'll live.
Merry Christmas to whoever reads this.
Be blessed my friend. Survive in the arms of the Savior.