“A Simple Guide to Leading Your Family This Christmas”

We’re deep into Christmas week — schedules are packed, emotions are mixed, and the pressure is real.

But here’s the opportunity:
You have more influence over the atmosphere of your home than you realize.

This newsletter gives you something simple, doable, and powerful — a way to lead your family spiritually without being awkward, preachy, or overwhelmed.

Just presence.
Just Scripture.
Just a moment.

A Simple Guide to Leading Your Family This Christmas

Let’s be honest — Christmas can be a lot.

The shopping.
The events.
The expectations.
The money.
The noise.
The family dynamics.

And in the middle of it all, the easiest thing to lose is the heart of Christmas.

As men, we often feel a quiet pressure to “make Christmas happen” —
to provide the gifts, manage the moments, keep the peace, and hold everything together.

But here’s the truth: Your family doesn’t need a perfect Christmas. They need a present leader.

Not perfect.
Not polished.
Not dramatic.
Just present.

Being a spiritual leader at Christmas isn’t about preaching a sermon in your living room.
It’s not about being super-spiritual or knowing every verse in the Bible.

It’s about creating one moment of attention —
where your family looks not at the gifts, but at the Giver.

Why This Matters

Christmas is the story of God drawing near.
John 1:14 says:

“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.”

God didn’t stay distant.
He stepped into the mess, the noise, the humanity.

That’s leadership.
And you can model it in small, meaningful ways inside your home.

Your presence brings peace.
Your steadiness changes the atmosphere.
Your voice reminds your family what matters most.

And trust me — your kids may not remember every gift…
but they’ll remember this moment.

How to Lead Your Family With Ease

Here’s the simple plan.
You can do it Christmas Eve, Christmas morning, or anytime that fits your rhythm.

It takes 3–5 minutes.
No pressure.
No performance.

Just presence.

STEP 1 — Read This Scripture Out Loud

Choose one:

Option 1 — Luke 2:10–11

“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.”

Option 2 — John 1:14

“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.
We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only Son.”

Both are short.
Both are powerful.
Both point to the heart of Christmas:
God came close.

STEP 2 — Ask Two Simple Conversation Questions

Just talk.
Just connect for a moment.

Question 1:
“What’s one thing you’re thankful to Jesus for this year?”

Question 2:
“What’s one thing we can pray about together as a family?”

Keep it easy.
Keep it short.
Let your family share freely.

STEP 3 — Pray This Short Prayer Together

Here’s a simple prayer you can read word-for-word:

“Jesus, thank You for coming close.
Thank You for our family, our breath, and the blessings You’ve given us this year.
Help us feel Your peace today.
Help us stay close to You.
And help our home be filled with love, joy, and Your presence.
We give this Christmas to You. Amen.”

That’s it.
No pressure.
No overthinking.

A moment like this can shape your home more than the perfect decorations or the perfect gifts ever could.

Ask Yourself:

1. What kind of atmosphere do I want to cultivate in my home this Christmas?

2. How can I show emotional presence this week — not just physical presence?

3. What is one way I can encourage my wife or kids today?

TOOL OF THE WEEK — “The Christmas Atmosphere Checklist”

Use this today:

Bring Peace:
Speak gently. Slow your pace. Take a breath before responding.

Bring Presence:
Put your phone down for 10 minutes. Make eye contact. Listen intentionally.

Bring Prayer:
Pray once — even a simple sentence — with your family.

Bring Purpose:
Read a single verse that points your home back to Jesus.

Small actions.
Big impact.

PREMIUM SUBSCRIBER SECTION: “The Christmas Moment Toolkit.”

Includes:

• 3 Scripture readings

• A 3-minute family devotional

• A printable prayer card

• A simple Christmas blessing to speak over your home

If you’re not premium yet, this is a great week to jump in.

One Step at a Time.

Subscribe to Faith Forward NEXT to read the rest.