For many of us, Christmas amidst COVID-19 has caused us to turn to coping mechanisms that only help for the moment.

What’s your drug of choice? A glass (or two or three or more) of wine? Chocolate and more chocolate and never enough chocolate? Obsession with Netflix, gaming, baking or crafts? Ecstasy and/or virtual raves? Such habits may take our minds off our troubles while we indulge them. However, the moment we stop, the troubles remain. And sometimes the results can involve devastating or deadly consequences.

No matter who or what we try to satisfy ourselves with, the reality is that in this world we can’t escape the suffering. Pain-filled relationships. The need for more money or even some money. Overwhelming demands on our time and abilities. Boredom. Isolation. And, on and on it goes.

But what if you could turn a light on that illuminates a different kingdom? Light transforms. It takes you from a dark dreary hopeless realm into one where self-destructive choices are illuminated. It’s a place where you can be safe and secure despite circumstances. Where radiant joy can shine on your face regardless of the world’s troubles.

Are you tired of living in the dark? If so, turn on the light and find the very essence of Christmas.

In John 8:12, Jesus said: “I am the Light of the world; the one who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”

Once you can see this world’s pitfalls, you can avoid their pain—much as you can avoid hitting your shin on a table when you get up for a drink of water at night. Turning on a light is an option that requires some effort, but taking advantage of it is your choice.

Many years ago, I made a Christmas decoration out of beer bottles. Emptied of their contents, I dressed them in royal velvet robes trimmed with gold braid. Standing them on my mantle, I placed a candle in their midst. It made their faces glow bright with the hope, peace, and joy of Christ.

As a young woman, I had become fed up with my self-destructive choices. That’s when I chose Jesus. The God who became a man and changed everything for everyone who follows Him. Ever since I accepted Christ as my Savior, He’s been emptying me of self-destructive ideology and behaviors. He helps me quit trying to manipulate things to have my own way when I surrender to His will over mine. Doing so exchanges my filthy rags for His royal robes of righteousness.

Putting Him in control of my life is the best decision I ever made. Now, He carries the burden of my circumstances as I seek His guidance. And, as He helps me navigate around life’s obstacles, my hope is that some of His light is reflected on my face.

How could Jesus help you navigate your challenges?