Emmanuel: Living in the Truth that ‘God is With Us’
By Michaela McLean Wilkes
The holiday season, often depicted as a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, can also be a period marked by heightened stress, loneliness, anxiety, and depression. According to a 2023 survey, 89% of U.S. adults experience stress during the holidays, with 41% reporting more stress during this season than other times of the year. Another report stated that 64% of individuals with mental health conditions feel their symptoms worsen during the holidays. While many factors contribute to these statistics, like feelings of isolation and loneliness, unmet expectations, financial stress, or the loss of a loved one, finding a remedy is essential — as stress can have devastating consequences, with the potential to develop into physical illnesses, exacerbate anxiety and depression, and even lead to substance abuse. So, how can we combat holiday stress? The answer is found in Emmanuel.
It is no coincidence that at the same time depression, loneliness, and increased stress rates soar, we celebrate Emmanuel, or “God with Us.” (Matthew 1:23) The name Emmanuel encapsulates the heart of the Christmas story and the essence of the Christian faith. When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, it marked the most profound act of love: God chose to dwell among humanity in the form of a vulnerable child. By coming in the humblest form, Jesus experienced every stage of life, from infancy to adulthood, walking the same path as the people He came to save.
Christmas reminds us that in the midst of stress, loneliness, brokenness, pain, and suffering, God came near. He entered into our joys and our struggles, not as a distant God or King, but as a Savior who fully understands and shares in our humanity. No aspect of our lives is too small or insignificant for Him to understand. From the joy of childhood to the pressures of daily life, Jesus lived it all — showing that He not only cares but also deeply empathizes with every experience we face.
And beyond the Christmas season, God is still a personal, intimate God that desires to dwell in and among you.
If you’re struggling to grasp this truth, you can hold fast to Psalm 139:7-10, where David wrestles with the truth that God is truly present everywhere:
“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.”
Similarly, the writer of Deuteronomy shares, “There is no corner of the universe hidden from Him. From the highest heights to the deepest depths, God is everywhere. And God is with you, and he will never leave nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:8).
The promise of Emmanuel means we are never alone, no matter how heavy life becomes. Jesus purposely came to earth and endured the cross just for you—because you’re that precious and valuable to Him! Romans 8:35-39 confirms this truth and reminds us that God loves us because He wants to, and “nothing in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Anxiety, depression, and the sense of isolation that plagues so many can be countered by the assurance of His unwavering companionship. His love offers peace that surpasses understanding, and His light dispels the darkest shadows in your heart. Emmanuel means God is with us in all our circumstances.
When we embrace this truth, our perspective shifts from focusing on our problems to resting in His promises. Instead of allowing anxiety and depression to dictate our lives, we can trust in the God who sees, knows, and cares for every detail.
Christmas, therefore, is not just a celebration of Jesus’ birth; it is a call to live daily in the reality of His presence. It is proof that Jesus desires a relationship with you and took on human flesh for us all, becoming Emmanuel — God with us. Through daily prayer, worship, and a renewed focus on His Word, we can anchor our lives in the truth of Emmanuel, during the holidays and all year long.
“God with us” is more than a seasonal sentiment; it is the foundation of a life filled with hope and peace. When we truly believe that Jesus dwells in and among us, our burdens become lighter and our outlook brighter. This truth has the power to change not only our lives but also the world around us, reminding us that Christmas is ultimately about the gift of God’s abiding presence.
For more from Michaela McLean Wilkes, click HERE.