31 Family Devotions For Christmas Day THIRTEEN Dec. 13th

12 Days Until Christmas

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

ISAIAH 55:8-9

Sometimes our carefully laid plans are not God's. Even our very best intentions can end up not being a part of God's plan. Ask Him to help you be flexible in your plans and actions. If things aren't exactly perfect this Christmas or you feel as though something has gone horribly wrong, remember that God has a plan and He will use all thing for the good of thsoe who love Him(Romans) 8:28)

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank You for knowing what is best for me. Help me to be flexible when things aren't going my way. Help me to remember that Your plan is perfect.
AMEN.

Family Activity:

Plan a family movie night.(we did that last night) Take a trip to the video store and let everyone in your family pick out his or her favorite holiday movie. Serve pizza and popcorn. Break out the sleeping bags, pillows, and pajamas. This would also be a fun night to "camp out" under the Christmas tree and enjoy being together as a family.

Stress-free Tip:

If you need to save some money, head to the library instead of the video store and check out Christmas movies there. Borrow Christmas books, too. Spend time each night reading as a family.

Recipe:

Jeanne's Caramel Popcorn

Ingredients

6 cups popped popcorn

2 cups brown sugar

1 cup light corn syrup

1 cup butter

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 teaspoon soda

Directions

Spray large roasting pan with cooking spray. Place popcorn in pan in a 275 degree oven while preparing glaze. In heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Then boil 5 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and soda. Mixture will be bubbly. Pour over warm popcorn. Stir to coat well. Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cool. Break apart and store in airtight container.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Enjoy.