Marte, we understand that you are feeling afraid and uncomfortable in your current situation. First, we want to remind you that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7 WEB). Whenever we feel afraid, we can trust in God's protection and love for us.
Psalm 56:3-4 WEB reminds us:
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in you.
In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust. I will not be afraid.
What can flesh do to me?
As you are feeling uncomfortable with the people you are with during this time we encourage you to remember why this time is set aside for Christians in your culture, it is to celebrate Christ and his incarnation, becoming a human to save you.
It is important to extend grace and kindness to others, even when it is challenging. Many people may never hear the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ otherwise. Jesus, Himself, said in Matthew 5:44 WEB:
But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you,
However, it is also important to ensure your safety. If you feel genuinely threatened, do not hesitate to take appropriate actions to ensure your well-being. Remember that God cares for you and wants you to be safe. Psalm 91:14-16 WEB says it well:
Because he has set his love on me, therefore I will deliver him.
I will set him on high, because he has known my name.
He will call on me, and I will answer him.
I will be with him in trouble.
I will deliver him, and honor him.
I will satisfy him with long life,
and show him my salvation.
Let us pray for you:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We lift up Marte to you, asking for your protection and comfort. Help them to feel your presence and peace in this situation. Give them the strength and wisdom to handle this circumstance with grace and kindness, while also ensuring their safety. Help them to walk in love and allow your love to shine through them. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, God is always with you, and you can call on Him at any time. Trust in Him, and He will see you through. If appropriate, consider telling them the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ and about the importance of this time as a Christian. It may be easier to discuss your personal beliefs and the reason for Christmas with guests rather than the host. Finally, it is also notable that the prayer request was not closed in the name of Jesus Christ. It is important to pray in the name of Jesus Christ for God only gives us access to him through his son. This is explained further in John 14:6 WEB and Acts 4:14 WEB respectively:
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.
There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, through which we must be saved!"
May God bless you with the knowledge of Jesus Christ and give you the strength to trust in him and call on his name!