Control Your Christmas Spending

Are you bombarded with Christmas advertisements?

We have to consciously work at not letting the lure of consumer goods eclipse the riches of Christ. Many people demonstrate love through giving, but problems arise when those gifts cost more than you can afford. So how can you control your spending during the holidays? First, seek the Lord. Ask Him for creativity to bless those you love while staying within your budget. Make your list, set a realistic budget and try to use cash. Aim for simplicity and creating memories. Contrary to what the world tells you, gifts don’t have to cost lots of money. Give of your time. Pass down heirlooms. Give of your talents. Can you cook, sew, or do repairs? Maybe you can host a game night, puzzle night, or movie night for loved ones. Those memories will last a whole lot longer than plastic toys!

Whether or not money is an issue, we have an obligation to steward what God’s provided. So ignore the trending toys and gimmicks and give that which has lasting value. When tempted to buy for yourself, ask what that same amount of money donated would buy someone in the third world. “Don’t lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:19-20) Focus your giving around the gift of Christ. Celebrate Him this year by loving others and stewarding money wisely. You’ll bless others and be richly rewarded.

Now don’t forget that December is the most important month for charitable organizations. If you’ve been blessed by Crown’s ministry, please consider making a gift so others can benefit as well. Your gift before December 31 will be doubled in impact through our Matching Challenge, and you can receive my new book as a thank you for your generosity! Please give today at crown.org.