The Gift of Giving

Last December was the first Christmas my husband and I shared together as a married couple. While I expected major Hallmark movie vibes, I was quickly disappointed when figuring out how to spend our holidays and navigating family dynamics became a big source of tension in our new marriage. 

Let’s just say that our time as newlyweds quickly revealed the selfishness in both of our hearts. 

I wanted to sleep over at my parent's house on Christmas Eve, but Ryan wanted to spend a quiet first Christmas in our apartment. Ryan envisioned us attending all six Christmas church services together, but I preferred to spend time with friends and family instead. I wanted to wear matching Christmas pj’s, but Ryan… you get the picture. 

Days that I thought would be filled with hot cocoa and warm fuzzies ended up in bickering and tears (I do admit that the tears were mostly mine). The problem wasn’t that we couldn’t compromise or come to an agreement; the problem was that we were missing what Christmas should be about altogether. 

Christmas is not about getting, it’s about giving. God served as the perfect example of generosity on Christmas. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” 

God gave us His very own Son so that our sins would be forgiven and we could have everlasting life with Him. This is the best gift we could ever receive. 

As I reflect on my first Christmas with Ryan and enter into a new holiday season, I am grateful for the opportunity to reset my priorities. When I put my focus on the amazing gift of Jesus, I feel humbled and full of gratitude. Christmas is no longer about getting my way, but instead, it’s about bringing glory and honor to my Savior.

In light of God’s glorious gift to us, I have two challenges for you this holiday season! 

Challenge #1: 

Find ways to give with joy this season. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” It’s easy to get wrapped up in the busyness and “to-dos” of the season. Even though we may be giving loads of presents this time of year, our hearts can often be in the wrong place. Ask God to help you give of your time, money, and resources with joy and authenticity this Christmas. 

Challenge #2: 

The most important gift each of us can receive is the gift of eternal life. If you have not yet made a decision to receive this gift offered by Jesus, today is a great day to do so. Romans 10:9 says, “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Relinquishing control of your life to a Savior who loves you not only secures your eternal life in heaven, but it also brings purpose, joy, and abundance to your life now.  There's no better gift out there!

If you have questions about how faith changes relationships or even if you don't want to talk about faith at all, reach out to one of our counselors at thebreakingground.com. They would love to come alongside you on your journey, whatever that journey may be!

If you would like to hear a message from scripture explaining how to get stress out by relinquishing control, check out this message: https://youtu.be/Ea1M8KYjHlM