Not my will but yours.

This refrain appears throughout the story Almost Christmas Again—the heart’s cry of a young lady trying to find love, yet finding nothing but closed doors. (Did I mention? Almost Christmas Again is the title of my contribution to a recently released book of six stories: Christmas From the Heart: A Collection of Christmas Romances.)

If the woman in the story had pried open one of life’s earlier doors (figuratively) due to her own stubbornness, she would have settled for less than God’s best and most likely found herself living in regret.

Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? We are all prone to inept human nature trying to take control.

Only by actively choosing to lay aside our will can we accept the perfect will of the One who created us, loves us, and works all things for the good of His people.

Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.

-Luke 22:42

What a profound example Jesus sets for us in this verse as he pours out his heart in agony to the Father before his crucifixion. One mark of true Christian maturity is recognizing that our will may not be in alignment with what is best, and then begging God for His will to be done instead of our own. Let’s all focus on embracing this week with a thy will be done mentality and watch how God moves in our lives!

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And for all of you looking for a cozy, romantic, festive read with an eternal perspective, I hope you’ll consider checking out the story Almost Christmas Again in the compilation book Christmas From the Heart: A Collection of Christmas Romances. I personally love that the six different stories aren’t full length; less of a commitment, yet still a fun escape during the busy holiday season! 😊

I’d love to hear from you in the comments below! Also, let me know what your all-time favorite Christmas book (or movie!) is. I’ll go first – to be honest, I haven’t read a ton of Christmas novels, but the movie White Christmas will always be at the top of my list! Now it’s your turn! 🙂