YouVersion Logo
Search Icon

Day By Day With Billy GrahamSample

Day By Day With Billy Graham

DAY 360 OF 366

What does 'Merry' Mean?

When at this season of the year we wish our friends a “Merry Christmas,” it is essential to realize that true merriment of heart is contingent upon the recognition of the truth that Christ was born in Bethlehem for our salvation. The word “merry” is from an old Anglo-Saxon word which sometimes meant “famous,” “illustrious,” “great,” or “mighty.” Originally, to be merry did not imply to be merely mirthful, but strong and gallant. It was in this sense that gallant soldiers were called “merry men.” Favorable weather was called “merry weather.” Brisk winds were called a “merry gale.” Spenser speaks of London as “merry London.” The word “merry” carries with it the double thought of “might” and “mirth,” and is used both ways in Scripture. One of the early Christmas carols was “God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen.” The Christian is to engage in spiritual merriment as he thinks upon the fact that, through the redemption, he becomes a child of God’s family. The Bible teaches that the angels made merry at Christ’s birth.

Daily Prayer

This Christmas my heart is indeed merry when I think of Your birth, dear Lord. I rejoice with the angels and praise Your holy name!

Scripture

Day 359Day 361

About this Plan

Day By Day With Billy Graham

A daily scripture with insight, encouragement and practical application from Billy Graham’s sermons and writings.

More

We would like to thank the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association for this plan. For more information, please visit: www.billygraham.org