Every year on December 13, thousands of readers open Jesus Calling by Sarah Young and meet one of the most powerful entries in the entire book: “Take time to be holy.” This short but profound message has touched countless hearts, brought clarity in chaotic seasons, and reminded believers worldwide readers that true holiness isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore the full Jesus Calling December 13 devotional, unpack its deep meaning, study the supporting Bible verses, and show you practical ways to live out “Take time to be holy” every single day.
What Does Jesus Calling December 13 Really Say “Take Time to Be Holy”?
Yes—100%. Here is the exact entry for December 13 from the original Jesus Calling devotional:
Take time to be holy. The word holy does not mean goody-goody; it means set apart for sacred use. That is what these quiet moments in My Presence are accomplishing within you. As you focus your mind and heart on Me, you are being transformed: re-created into the one I designed you to be. This process requires blocks of time set aside for communion with Me.
The benefits of this practice are limitless. Emotional turmoil begins to settle. Love and joy flow more freely. Your soul will prosper as you give your whole self to Me—your thoughts, your words, your deeds. The more you reflect My likeness, the more you draw others to Me. You become a beacon of Light, shining into the darkness of this world.
Scriptures: Psalm 24:3–4 • Ephesians 4:22–24 • 1 Peter 1:15–16
This entry is one of the most quoted and shared devotionals of the year—especially during the busy Christmas season when we need the reminder the most.
Why December 13 Feels So Powerful Every Year
December is noisy. Shopping, parties, travel plans, family stress—everything fights for your attention. That’s exactly why Sarah Young’s words on December 13 cut straight to the heart: “Take time to be holy.”
It’s a gentle but firm command from Jesus (through Sarah’s writing) to slow down, step away from the rush, and remember that the entire Christmas story happened because God wanted to make us holy—set apart for Him.
The Real Meaning of “Holy” (It’s Not What You Think)
Most people hear “holy” and picture stained-glass windows, monks, or someone who never makes mistakes. But Sarah Young immediately clears up the misunderstanding:
- Holy ≠ goody-goody
- Holy = set apart for sacred use
Think of your favorite coffee mug that you only use on quiet Saturday mornings. It’s not “better” than other mugs—it’s simply set apart for a special purpose. That’s how God sees you when you spend time with Him.
Breaking Down the Key Bible Verses for December 13
Psalm 24:3–4 (NIV)
“Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart…”
This verse shows that closeness with God isn’t about perfect behavior—it’s about a heart that keeps turning back to Him.
Ephesians 4:22–24 (NIV)
“You were taught… to put off your old self… to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”
Paul reminds us that holiness is a daily choice: take off the old, put on the new. Quiet time with Jesus is how the “putting on” actually happens.
1 Peter 1:15–16 (NIV)
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
God doesn’t demand holiness because He’s mean—He invites us into it because that’s where true life and freedom is found.
How to Actually “Take Time to Be Holy” in Real Life
Here are 10 practical, no-guilt ways to live out the Jesus Calling December 13 message—even in a crazy season:
- Start a 10-minute “holy appointment” every morning before checking your phone.
- Put your phone on Do Not Disturb during your quiet time—no exceptions.
- Use the exact December 13 entry as a 7-day loop (read it slowly every day for a week).
- Keep a small journal and write one sentence after your quiet time: “Today You said _ to me.”
- Play soft worship music (no lyrics) to help your mind settle.
- Take three slow, deep breaths and say, “Jesus, I’m here. Make me holy today.”
- Go for a prayer walk—being in nature helps many people feel set apart.
- Light a candle as a physical reminder: “This time is sacred.”
- End your quiet time by asking, “Jesus, who needs Your light through me today?”
- Share one insight from your time with a friend—it multiplies the holiness!
Benefits You’ll Notice When You Take Time to Be Holy
People who consistently practice quiet themselves before God report:
| Benefit | How It Shows Up in Daily Life |
|---|---|
| Emotional turmoil settles | Less reactivity, more peace under pressure |
| Love & joy flow more freely | Kinder words, quicker forgiveness |
| Clarity in decisions | You hear God’s “still small voice” more clearly |
| Become a beacon to others | People ask, “Why are you so calm/happy?” |
| Soul prosperity | Deep contentment even when circumstances are hard |
Common Questions About Jesus Calling December 13 (FAQ)
1. Is Jesus Calling December 13 only for super-spiritual people?
No! Sarah Young wrote these devotionals for normal, busy, imperfect people. The whole point is that holiness is for everyone who will simply show up.
2. What if I only have 5 minutes?
Five focused minutes with Jesus is more powerful than an hour of distracted time. He honors the heart that says, “I’m here—even if it’s short.”
3. Can men connect with this entry too?
Absolutely. Thousands of men say December 13 is one of their yearly favorites because it’s direct and life-giving.
4. Does “take time to be holy” mean I have to quit everything and become a monk?
Not at all. It means carving out intentional space so the rest of your day is lived from holiness instead of for holiness.
5. What if I miss a day? Am I ruined?
Grace upon grace. Just begin again tomorrow. God is never disappointed when His child comes back.
6. Are there children’s or teens’ versions of this devotional?
Yes! Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids and Jesus Calling for Teens both have beautiful December 13 entries with the same core message.
7. Can I share the December 13 reading on social media?
Yes, many people do (just include proper credit to Sarah Young and Thomas Nelson).
Final Thoughts: Let December 13 Change the Rest of Your Year
In a month that screams “Hurry!”, Jesus whispers on December 13: “Slow down. Sit with Me. Let Me make you holy.”
When you say yes to that invitation—even in tiny moments—you become the calm in the Christmas chaos. You become the light someone else desperately needs to see.
So tomorrow morning, before the world wakes up, open your Bible, open Jesus Calling, and pray the simplest prayer of the season:
“Jesus, today I take time to be holy. Set me apart for You.”
You won’t regret it. In fact, years from now, you’ll look back and realize December 13 was one of the days that changed everything.
Take time to be holy—the world needs holy people now more than ever.
