When Christmas is messy & GOD IS STILL FAITHFUL!

Well… here we are. The end of 2025. Christmas, the season of love, joy, good cheer, happy family gatherings, and smiling photos that make it look like everyone has their life together.

Now, I don’t know about your family… But Christmas in my house? It’s usually a little wild. December is packed. Almost every week there’s something: two birthdays, gatherings, celebrations, and then, oh yes, Christmas itself. Every year, I tell myself, This year will be different. I’ll be prepared. I’ll be calm. I’ll be organised. And every year… well, let’s say reality has other plans.

By the end of the year, everyone seems a bit frazzled and tired. It’s like the promise of a new year gives us permission to loosen our grip, ease the pressure, and let everything spill out. That usually comes with emotions, misunderstandings, and the occasional small outburst. It always takes a few days before we find our rhythm again and remember we actually love each other very much. And somewhere in that space, I start to reflect. Because when I look back over this year, I realise something: There hasn’t been a single season without testing. When you experience a spiritual breakthrough, when you feel strong, clear, full of faith, you turn the corner, and there it is: the test. And I’m reminded of the words in Scripture: “Consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials of many kinds.” James 1:2 Not because the trials are fun. But because of what they produce.

Looking back, I can honestly say this year exposed some deep untruths I had to face, about myself, my fears, and my trust. And yet, through all of it, God has been so faithful. I keep thinking of that line: “I have a good, good Father.” Not because life has been easy, but because He has never left. This year I’ve walked through some dark valleys. I’ve had to confront parts of myself that weren’t pretty or comfortable. But still, He was closer than a friend, closer than a lover. Steady. Present. Faithful. I’ve learned to trust Him beyond what makes sense to me.

More than ever before, I feel like I’ve truly learned what it means to walk with Jesus and be led by the Spirit, not striving, not forcing, but releasing, surrendering, and trusting. Because when you take time for intimacy with the Lord, real, quiet, private time, you begin to know Him. And when you know Him, you trust Him. So when He whispers, “Forgive.” Or “Let that go.” You know, deep down, that He only has good intentions toward you. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5 I am far from where I would like to be. But my biggest takeaway this year has been this: time with Him changes you.

It feels like my faith muscles have been strengthened. I feel more aware of the Holy Spirit within me, not just as a guide, but as a friend. So as we move into Christmas, let’s not forget the name Immanuel, God with us. He left heaven to be with His family, us. You. His precious, beautiful child. Jesus is the greatest gift. He gave His life so that we could live in love, freedom, and eternal hope. My wish for you this Christmas is that you truly know how deeply you are loved and cherished. And that out of that love, you are able to love those around you. And as we step into 2026, may we choose, again and again, to put God first, trusting that He has a future and a hope for us. “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 Merry Christmas. You are not alone. God is with you.

Love Nadine ,

Equipped Team