Hymns and carols have long been a part of Christmas. Hymns, in general, are written to praise God for who He is or what He has done, and Christmas hymns are created to help the church express faith during Advent.

Carols are typically in a more festive style with various Christmas or winter themes. Then there are some Christmas songs that are neither hymns nor carols. There are reportedly almost 10,000 songs on the subject of Christmas, but not all are Christian or biblically accurate. Listening to Christmas hymns is one of the beautiful traditions of Christmas, and singing along to the music fills our hearts with joy and helps us focus on the true meaning of Christmas. 

Here are some suggested Christmas hymns and Christian songs to listen to this holiday season. Because musical tastes vary so widely, both traditional and more contemporary suggestions are included.

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God did not necessarily call, appear to, and communicate with Moses because of his innate skills or personality. The Scriptures remind us that God often chooses the foolish, weak, lowly, and despised to accomplish His purposes (1 Corinth. 1:27-29).

Light is one of the many symbols of Christmas. Whether we light candles or place lights on a Christmas tree, glowing lights have a special place in our hearts during the holiday season. For Christ-followers, lights symbolize Jesus’ coming as a baby in Bethlehem, the promised Messiah.

Beauty, from a human perspective, is relative. What is beautiful in the eyes of one may be considered commonplace or even ugly to another. Beauty, for humans, is individual and subjective; but God defines His own concept of beauty, and we would be wise to consider it.

The Old and New Testaments say much about beauty, what is truly lovely. Does beauty involve only physical appearance, or something more? Is it sinful to desire to be beautiful? How do we respond to the biblical concept of beauty? Let’s explore these questions together.

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It’s so easy to become overwhelmed by life circumstances, and being overwhelmed can leave us drained and desperate. When we are physically, mentally, or spiritually drained, we need far more than propping up. We need a sense that God is real and involved in our lives. We need to claim the truths we have in our Father God and His Son, Jesus, our Savior.

Here are Scriptures from 10 psalms that can help when we feel drained — in those times when what we actually need are strength, stability, hope, peace, refreshment, joy, comfort, deliverance, courage, and the healing rest of a good night’s sleep.

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Sometimes it feels like we’re being attacked from all sides — and indeed we are. Ephesians 2:2-3a mentions three sources of attacks: “this world … the ruler of the kingdom of the air (Satan) … the cravings of our flesh.” It’s not surprising we get weary in the battle!

God understands, and His Word offers wise counsel for the weary. Here are 10 Scripture passages that aid the Christ-follower with spiritual warfare.

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“Community” generally means people who are gathered together in a particular place — a neighborhood or town — who have common background, interests, or cause. A more elevated meaning involves mutual love and care. 

The concept of community reaches back to the beginning of time, and was taught in the early church as a foundational principle. It is still important, even though many people have stopped attending church in local communities.

The Bible has much to say about community in both testaments, especially through the words and examples of Jesus, Paul, Peter, and others.

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In a society that increasingly views children as burdens or inconvenient disruptions rather than treasures to be appreciated and desired, the idea that children are a blessing sent from God is counter-cultural. Solomon said children are “a heritage” and “reward” from the Lord (v. 3).

The Bible has much to say about rest. It’s more than simple relaxation or slowing down. There is great theology in many of the Scriptures concerning rest.

Here are six verses, accompanied by other helpful Scriptures, that invite a deeper look and greater appreciation for this word “rest.”

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Deacons assist the pastor in a number of ways. This might include helping in programs involving the educational interests of the church, or in evangelistic, missionary, or charitable outreaches. 

“Awesome” is an appropriate word to use for God, and it’s not to be used flippantly. The Psalmist rightly asks, “Who is like the LORD our God?” (Psalm 113:5). He is unequaled and unsurpassed. Anyone who doubts God’s superiority might grab a theology book for a refresher course concerning His being, attributes, and mighty works. 

Christians sometimes have naïve assumptions about temptation. Some think it will be obvious, but temptations are subtle and nuanced. Satan delights in taking us by surprise.