If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him! Luke 11:13, NIV
Christmas seems to arrive earlier every year. And it’s not just the decorations in department stores. It’s the early rehearsals for pageants and school programs that often begin before fall has fully settled in. As an educator, I always wanted to feel like I actually had a Christmas break, so I learned to shop for gifts throughout the year. It helped me spread out costs and find meaningful presents without the December stress, especially helpful on a teacher’s budget. And because I don’t enjoy crowds, December shopping is the last thing I want to do!
My personal goal was always the same: finish shopping by Thanksgiving and all wrapping by the end of the first week of December.
But no matter how organized we are or how thoughtful we try to be, earthly gifts still fall short. Some gifts don’t last, some aren’t very personal, and some end up being impractical. I might think a gift is perfect, while the recipient silently wonders, “What was she thinking?” Maybe you’ve received a gift like that, too.
Even at our best, the gifts we give are only good—never perfect.
But God is different. He gives only perfect gifts. At Christmas, we celebrate the greatest gift ever given: His Son, our Redeemer, the perfect Lamb of God. And after giving us Jesus, God gave another incredible gift—the Holy Spirit. Scripture refers to Him again and again as a gift, freely and generously given to God’s children.
Unlike our attempts at thoughtful giving, God’s gifts are always exactly what we need, and He gives them year-round—not just in December.
As you move into this Christmas season, consider how you can share God’s gifts with others. Many people struggle during this time, facing loneliness, grief, financial pressure, or the weight of overwhelming expectations. Let’s be intentional about praying for those who are hurting and offering comfort, encouragement, and love where we can.
God has given us His perfect gifts. May we share them generously with those around us.
Dear Lord, I am available to be used by You this time of year to be a blessing to someone. Please show me if they need something from my heart instead of a material thing. I want to honor You and share Your love. Amen.
Copyright Kathy Branzell.
Kathy has a heart for encouraging Christian educators and currently serves as the President of the National Day of Prayer Task Force. Prior to this role, she was the founder and president of Fellowship and Christian Encouragement (FACE) for Educators.
