This week on Encouragement for Real Life, we continue our A Different Kind of December series with a practical and hope-filled episode all about protecting what matters most in a season that often tries to pull us in every direction.
Julie begins with Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 6:33—to seek Him first—and shares how Scripture gives us permission and guidance to guard our hearts, priorities, and peace. December has a gravitational pull toward hurry, pressure, expectation, and overcommitting. But when we intentionally slow down, culture tends to speed up. That’s why protecting what matters isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Using Proverbs 4:23 as a foundation, Julie explores how guarding our hearts impacts everything flowing out of our lives: peace, joy, decisions, relationships, and the condition of our inner world. She also shares personal stories, including how simplifying last year’s holiday season brought unexpected freedom and joy.
Protect what matters most this month.
Inside this episode, you’ll find:
- How to identify what truly matters most to you this December
- Questions to help you discern what steals your peace or pulls you off-center
- Simple practices to protect your heart, your time, and your relationships
- Why “not this year” can be a holy and healthy response
- How choosing a word for December helps you stay grounded in Jesus
- Practical ways to live your word daily—one choice, moment, or conversation at a time
You’ll also be invited into a brief soul-centered pause to ask Jesus, “What do You want me to protect this season?” and to receive His gentle guidance in shaping a December that aligns with His pace and presence.
Click on the player above to listen to the full 30-minute episode.
If you need encouragement to slow down, center your heart, and walk intentionally with Jesus this season, this episode will bless you.
Learn more about Abundant Life Mentoring or schedule a free Connection Call using the link in the show notes.
Links:
- Last weeks episode, 227. A Different Kind of December
- Matthew 6:33 NIV
- Proverbs 4:23 NIV
- Looking for support this month? Book your free Abundant Life Mentoring Connection Call with Julie
- Check out Julie’s Coffee and Calling: Choosing Your Word for 2026 online event on January 3
- Find encouraging gifts through Julie’s new Shop
- Access Julie’s free Resource Library to keep yourself encouraged
- Watch on YouTube
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- Share this episode with a friend!
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