Daily Devo

The Best is Yet to Come!

By: John Carrigan
Wednesday, December 31, 2025

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT)


The holiday season was a whirlwind, and 2025 went by so fast. Suddenly, 2026 is here! Growing up, the start of a new year seemed great. Going back to school in January didn't seem so bad because summer would be coming soon. But as I grew up and had children of my own, my perspective changed. Our family enjoyed the holidays, but I was often a little depressed afterwards. It wasn’t until I became a Christ follower that I began to understand why.


Before I knew Jesus, I would build up the holiday season in my head so much that there was no way it could meet my expectations. I’d lost sight of the reason for the season. I was seeking satisfaction from people, places, and things. When it didn't happen, I would get depressed. During the holidays, many people fall into the same trap I did. If we're not careful, it could even happen to us.


The OT Jews were required to celebrate religious festivals on certain days, but God's Word doesn't command New Testament believers to celebrate any holidays. It doesn’t even mandate Christmas Eve or Easter observances. It's traditional to celebrate the birth and death of Jesus, but when we do, we must always remember the reason for the season. Christmas and Easter are a great time for others to witness the joy God gives us as we celebrate His Son!


So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31


If we want to start 2026 off right, this verse is a great reminder of how we should act. It's OK to celebrate the arrival of a new year, but if we call ourselves Christ followers, we must always celebrate in a way that honors God!


But even if we could combine the celebrations for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years, into one giant party, it would still pale in comparison to seeing Jesus face to face. That day will be far greater than any holiday celebration!







Scripture references from NIV unless otherwise noted.