The average holiday household budget for Christmas 2022 is projected to be $823.
Each year, many Americans celebrate Christmas with an outpouring of gift-giving. Christians are no exception. During the Christmas season of 30 years ago, we estimated that many Christian families would spend $500 or more on gifts for family and friends. And there’s nothing wrong with this.
But how much more wonderful Christmas would be if believers would give something extra to the Lord while we’re giving to loved ones. In past years, I’ve even suggested that our readers follow my lead, earmarking at least 10% of their gift-giving dollars for a birthday present to Jesus.
Each December, I figure how much my family will spend on Christmas presents and give one-tenth of that amount to the Lord over and above my tithes and offerings. Giving freely and generously to those in need and to ministries doing the Lord’s work is a joyous privilege when God has given us His most precious Gift.
Consider blessing your local church, evangelistic ministries, relief agencies or missions organizations.
In this special season of giving, I hope you’ll put Christ at the top of your Christmas gift list. My wife, Joy, and the entire staff of Charisma Media join with me to wish you and your family a Jesus-filled Christmas and a blessed new year.
Stephen Strang is founding editor of Charisma. Learn more about the book’s he’s written, including God and Cancel Culture, at stevestrangbooks.com.
