Comfort & Joy

Devotional from Pastor Tim

There’s something special about hearing Christmas carols echo through the season, especially when they remind us of gospel truth. Thewords “tidings of comfort and joy” describe exactly what Jesusbrought—because He brought Himself. In a world full of sorrow, disappointment, and uncertainty, God reveals Himself as the God of all comfort. Hedoesn’t stand apart from our pain; He steps into it with us. The Spirit withinyou is not merely a guide but the very Comforter who knows you, understands you, and strengthens you from the inside.

And just as He comforts, He also fills you with joy. Joy isnot the product of predictable days or pleasant circumstances. It is the deepconfidence that Christ is present in every moment. Happiness depends on whathappens, but joy depends on who holds you, and He never changes. Because youare a new creation in Christ, this joy is already yours. You do not chase it; you express it as the fruit of His Spirit in you.

So whether this Christmas finds you celebrating or grieving, excited or weary, the truth remains: Jesus is with you, and Jesus is for you. Comfort is not an escape from pain but the nearness of God in it. Joy is not a fragile feeling but the unshakable reality of His life in you. This is whyevery Christmas is truly “merry”—His presence makes it so.

Psalm 16:11 “In Your presence is fullness of joy; in Yourright hand there are pleasures forever.”