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“But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord God my refuge.“ Psalm 73:28

The primary focus of our culture at Christmas is stuff. The sales, the giving, the getting. And, sadly, all this Holiday consumerism often leads even us to start looking around with eyes and hearts of envy. We home in on how prosperous “everyone” else seems to be because of what they are purchasing (for others or themselves).

Even a simple dog walk can turn us green. It happened to my hubby just this morning when we strolled by a neighbor’s post-Black-Friday trash pile, and he said, “Wow, he actually got two 55-inch TVs.” Sigh.

But this envy can go beyond tangibles. When we hear how many parties others are invited to or the number of family and friends around their table, comparison sets in and bitterness can take root. We begin perceiving our reality as “less than”—and we may find ourselves even crying out to God, “Why them and not me?” Perhaps you’re even struggling with big challenges like health issues, finances, or relationships…all especially burdening during this season.

In Psalm 73, Asaph wrote of the abundance of the wicked he witnessed around him—and he admitted the jealousy he felt amid the lack and suffering in his own life. But this Psalm-writer demonstrates how we can nip the bud of bitterness, just as he sang in verses 15-24. He turned his focus away from what others had and what they were doing, and he looked toward his eternal heavenly future.

Even more, in verses 25-28, Asaph relishes in the relationship he has with the Lord today—and so can we. The closer we are with Jesus in the moment, the more difficult it is for us to be bitter. I mean, what greater gift could we get than eternal life through Jesus? And what other relationship is as steadfast and unshakable than that which we have with our Lord? Thankfulness for our Savior, and for all His graciousness toward us, becomes like blooming flowers that fill our lives with the fragrance of joy—no matter the season.

“Lord, thank you for your unfailing love, amazing grace, and relentless mercy. Help me to keep my eyes on You, and please sever any roots of bitterness clinging to my soul.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life