When You Don’t Feel Like Celebrating

Christmas has arrived again, and you do not feel like joining in the celebration.Holidays can be hard when you’re experiencing grief over the death of a loved one, loss of a job, living away from home for the first time, or displacement because of war or violence. All these circumstances and more can lead to the question: 'What do I do when I don’t feel like celebrating?'The prophecies recorded in Isaiah were not solely intended for the people of Israel. Although this Bible book contains many rebukes for God’s chosen people and judgments for the pagan nations oppressing them, there is a thread of hope which runs through the pages of Isaiah. In When You Don’t Feel Like Celebrating: A 31-Day Advent Devotional, Carol B. Ghattas walks with you through Isaiah’s prophecies, to remind you that the God of promise will provide hope and encouragement even in your darkest days.As you struggle with your current reality, look to the Word and let God break through to your heart and restore your hope and joy. We have much to celebrate. What Other People are Saying...'Carol Ghattas has provided the body of Christ with a dual blessing for the Christmas season. First, she has provided a snapshot of the rich and glorious themes of Isaiah by highlighting God’s covenantal plans for His people that have been fulfilled both in Christ’s first coming and will surely be fulfilled in His second coming. Secondly, Carol has delivered these themes in a concise, readable, and digestible manner in a devotional format, with the specific aim of encouraging those who ’don’t feel like celebrating’ during the Christmas season. ’Comfort, comfort my people’ is the charge of God to Isaiah, and Carol has taken that torch and faithfully delivered a comforting and joyful study for the Christmas season. Read and be blessed!'-Dr. Keith MyattTeaching Pastor at Third Baptist ChurchMurfreesboro, TN'Words cannot adequately express the power of Carol Ghattas’s advent devotional! Carol is an amazing Christian lady who understands the journey of grief, and she is a genuine friend. After losing my son two years ago, I know how real grief is and that it is forever; but most importantly, I know God understands. His Word provides peace for our grieving hearts, even during holidays and special occasions. Many powerful Scriptures are shared from the prophet Isaiah. Each day of the devotional provides a new inspiration. I was particularly touched by ’A New Thing’ and the words from Isaiah 43:18-19. When our past contains pain, we don’t let love in. I know that God is love, and His grace is sufficient. I must keep my faith and know He is guiding me through this journey of grief.'-Nancy York'I start this review of When You Don’t Feel Like Celebrating by Carol Ghattas with a distinct bias. Carol is my sister. She and I both lost our spouses a little over a year apart, so walking the grief journey is something we have often discussed. In this devotional, you will find truth, wisdom, and comfort from God’s Word and the journey that Carol has walked since her loss. She communicates at a level that is easily digestible and will help you remember what the Advent is all about. Share this with others you know who may need encouragement during the Christmas season.'-Joe Brown