The holidays can be filled with joy, but they can also bring stress, busyness, and challenges. In this episode, I offer a heartfelt prayer for YOU, inspired by Romans 15:13:

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

[0:00] Intro

[1:20] How to pray Scripture over people

[5:45] A prayer for YOU

[13:30] Final thoughts

Bible verses:

Psalm 145

Colossians 1:9-12

Romans 15:13

Advent series

Finding Hope, Joy, and Peace During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of joy for many, but it can also bring stress, busyness, and emotional weight. In this week’s episode of Connecting Faith & Life with Mister Brown, I offered a heartfelt prayer inspired by Romans 15:13, hoping to center our hearts on God’s unchanging promises during this busy time of year.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” – Romans 15:13

This verse is my prayer for you as we navigate the holidays. Let’s break it down and reflect on what it means to truly experience hope, joy, and peace.

1. The God of Hope

The first part of Romans 15:13 invites us to know the true God—the God of hope. This isn’t the God we sometimes create in our minds, shaped by our desires or assumptions, but the God revealed in the Bible. He is sovereign, faithful, and loving. He keeps His promises, and He is worthy of all our trust.

Reflection: This holiday season, consider how you can deepen your relationship with the God of hope. Spend time in His Word and reflect on His attributes.

2. Joy and Peace Beyond Circumstances

Joy and peace are more than fleeting feelings—they’re gifts from God that surpass our circumstances. Joy is a deep delight in who God is, while peace is the absence of conflict, both internally and externally. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or mourning the absence of someone dear, God’s presence can bring you joy and peace.

Reflection: Take time each day to thank God for His gifts and ask Him to fill you with joy and peace, no matter what the day brings.

3. Abounding in Hope Through the Holy Spirit

Hope isn’t wishful thinking—it’s a confident expectation in God’s promises. This hope abounds not because of our strength but through the power of the Holy Spirit. As we trust God daily, He enables us to overflow with hope, even in challenging times.

Reflection: Consider what it looks like to rely on the Holy Spirit in your daily life. Ask Him to help you let go of worry and trust in God’s plan.

A Prayer for You This Holiday Season

As you read this, I want to pray Romans 15:13 over you:

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit, you may abound in hope.”

This holiday season, let’s not be consumed by the hustle and bustle or the stress of our circumstances. Instead, let’s turn to the God of hope, who fills us with joy, peace, and an abundance of hope.

Practical Ways to Abound in Hope This Holiday Season

Pray Scripture: Take verses like Romans 15:13 and personalize them in your prayers.

Reflect as a Family: Use Advent devotionals to focus on Christ’s coming.

Serve Others: Spread hope by reaching out to someone who might need encouragement.

If this resonates with you, I encourage you to share this prayer with your family and friends. Let’s make this holiday season about connecting faith and life in meaningful ways.