A 5-Gift Path for your Presents AND your Presence

We all want this season to be filled with joy, peace, and meaningful connection. But let’s be honest...between the pressure to spend, the noise of marketing, and the swirl of expectations, it’s easy for the sacredness of Christmas to get buried beneath the wrapping paper.

If you’re longing for a Christmas that feels a little lighter and more aligned with your faith, here’s good news: it starts with a few simple, faithful shifts. This year, give yourself (and your loved ones) a Christmas to remember by reclaiming peace, presence, and purpose in your money choices.

1. The Gift of a Plan

Before we talk about presents or budgets, let’s talk about protection—because that’s what a plan really is.

We all know that the marketing machine of Christmas is loud.  Every flashing ad and countdown timer is designed to push you from thoughtful to impulsive. But Proverbs 21:20 reminds us,

“Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.”

A plan isn’t restrictive, it’s protective. It guards your budget, your peace, and your ability to be generous without guilt. Set a budget. Use cash when possible. Make a list and stick to it. Share your plan with a trusted friend.

2. The Gift of Focus

Gift-giving can stir up pressure. You want your gifts to have meaning. You want people to feel seen. You don’t want to disappoint.

Here’s a framework I heard about years ago when thinking about a gift to give that has helped me a lot - consider:
Something they want. Something they need. Something to wear. Something to read.
Simple. Memorable. Thoughtful.

It's simple and memorable and brings focus and intentionality to the gift-giving process. It’s not about more. It’s about meaning.

3. The Gift of Moments

Chances are, you don’t remember every gift you’ve ever received. But you do remember the moments- who was around the table, who made you laugh, the traditions that made you feel like home.

Spending often has little to do with the gift itself. It’s about what we hope the gift may prove or impress or maybe even fix. But meaningful moments set us free from that pressure. You don’t need to buy memories—you can make them. A walk under Christmas lights. A puzzle on the table. A slow dinner. A shared laugh.

Let your presence enhance your presents, because connection is a truly memorable gift.

4. The Gift of Less

Studies show children actually benefit from receiving fewer toys, it sparks more creativity. And let’s be honest, we adults aren’t much different are we?! Too many choices overwhelm. Too much stuff numbs. Too many expectations exhaust.

But fewer, more meaningful gifts can bring more peace and joy. Less clutter. Less comparison. More Christ in Christmas.

5. The Gift of Financial Peace

And finally, a financially peaceful Christmas isn’t an accident. It’s the result of intentional, faith-centered decisions.

It doesn’t rush. It doesn’t panic-buy. It doesn’t compare. It doesn’t overspend in the name of gift-giving. Instead, it pauses. It chooses wisely. It aligns spending with faith and values.

When your heart is centered on Christ, even your shopping becomes a form of worship.

So this season, slow the pace. Lower the pressure. Rethink the list. And lean into the gifts that last—presence, peace, and moments that reflect the heart of Jesus.

Let this be A Christmas to Remember, not for what was under the tree, but for what God did in your heart and those around you!

NEXT STEPS: If you want to go a little deeper, please listen to Money Made Faithful podcast Episode #207 titled: A Christmas to Remember - Gifts to Please, Peace to Share (14 minutes) 

Apple: Episode #207- A Christmas to Remember - Gifts to Please, Peace to Share

Spotify: Episode #207- A Christmas to Remember - Gifts to Please, Peace to Share