Devotion 5: Contending for Your Faith

Christmas is often considered a season of peace and joy, but it can also bring with it unexpected challenges. The pressure to keep up with societal expectations of gifts, decorations, and holiday events can easily overwhelm us. The noise of a world focused on consumerism can drown out the true meaning of Christmas: the celebration of Christ’s birth, love, and incredible gift of salvation.  

I remember when I was a kid, Cabbage Patch Dolls were the hottest toy around. Parents would get into actual fistfights on Black Friday, all in the name of Christmas. Being with family can stir up emotions, whether it is challenging dynamics or when we are remembering loved ones who are not with us anymore. The different feelings that surface during the holidays can deeply affect our hearts. At times, this tension between the world’s version of Christmas and the true meaning of the holiday can challenge our faith. Christmas, in its essence, is a reminder that God came into the world, humbling Himself to a manger, to offer us redemption. It is in the quiet of this truth that we find the power to contend for our faith. This is not just during the Christmas season but in all seasons of life.  

We find in Jude this idea of contending for our faith. Verse 3 says, “Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.” Verses 20 and 21 add, “But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.”  

Contending for your faith means holding on to the hope we have in Jesus, no matter the circumstances. It means refusing to be swayed by distractions, whether that is family dynamics or misplaced priorities, that seek to overshadow His light. Jude encourages us to build ourselves “up in your most holy faith.” This requires intentional effort, especially when life becomes chaotic or when external pressures attempt to steal our peace. Christmas calls us to turn our focus toward Christ, the reason for this season, and allow His love to fuel us through the hustle and bustle.  

Here are three ways to contend for your faith this Christmas.  

1. Center your heart on Jesus: Amid the busyness, find quiet moments to reflect on the meaning of Christmas. Take time to read the Christmas story from Luke 2:1-20 or meditate on how Christ’s birth changed the world and your life forever.  

2. Pray: Prayer is a powerful way to stay connected with God. Ask Him for strength to resist distractions and peace that surpasses understanding. Allow His love to guard your heart as you navigate the season.  

3. Remember the eternal perspective: Christmas points to an eternal truth that Jesus came to save us. When challenges arise or when you feel your faith being tested, remember that the story of Christ’s birth is just the beginning. Our hope is not in what we have or do not have this season but in the unshakable truth of Christ’s love for us.  

As you contend for your faith this Christmas, remember that it is not about perfection. It is about keeping Christ at the center and allowing His presence to transform your heart, no matter the circumstances.