Christian Family inspired Articles
"Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the LORD your God has blessed you," says Deuteronomy 16:17.
When it comes time to buy gifts for Christmas or for your loved ones' birthdays you might find yourself anxiously checking your bank account to make sure that you can afford presents. If money is a little tight and you are concerned about the quality of the presents you can give, then this article will offer you four tips for giving great gifts on a budget.
"Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the LORD your God has blessed you," says Deuteronomy 16:17. God has given you many blessings, so use this inspiring Bible verse to give you the motivation and encouragement you need to give fantastic gifts by:
- Looking out for sales throughout the year
Do not start thinking about presents only in the few weeks before Christmas or birthdays start sneaking up on you. Keep your eyes open for big sales on items that your loved ones would love throughout the whole year, and then just store the items away until it comes time to wrap and gift them. Store closing sales are a particularly great place to pick up perfect gifts for huge bargain prices.
- Buying in bulk
You can get a good discount on giftable items if you buy them in bulk, especially at wholesale stores. Look out for big packages of items such as soaps, bath products, chocolates, candles, and liquor. These can be great gifts for acquaintances who you do not know very well but still want to give something nice to, or fantastic additions to presents for close friends and family members. For example, you can give some candles to your coworkers and you can add one to the main present you got for your mom as well.
- Getting crafty
Homemade gifts are probably the best way to save money on birthdays and during the holiday season. If you can knit, paint, write, build things, cook, or do anything else with your hands, then you have the skills needed to make a meaningful and personalized present. For example, you can make your own cards, bake some goodies, or offer to fix up a friend's home.
- Utilizing coupons
Coupons are a fantastic and underutilized method of buying presents on a dime. Many people, however, do not use them for much else other than groceries. Take advantage of the great deals offered with coupons by keeping on the lookout for items that your loved ones would use and appreciate. Matching coupons with store sales can save you even more money on gifts.
In Proverbs 3:27 we read: "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act." This verse encourages us to use the blessings, skills, and means that we have in order to show our loved ones that we care. A good present doesn't have to cost a fortune, it just needs to have a little bit of thought and effort behind it. It is possible to give great gifts even on a budget.
Spiritual Prayer
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.