You Can Give A Gift That Will Not Cost You A Penny!

But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging. As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. (1 Peter 4:7-10 KJV)

As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. (1 Peter 4:10 NKJV)

Some time ago, I was preparing to speak to a group of people at a Christmas dinner. I had a book about Christmas (I cannot find or recall the name, will repost later) at that time and came across the premise for this post.

In the text above, the word "gift" is charisma, in the N.T. Greek; it means "endowment" of any kind, but especially that given by the Holy Spirit. In our text, it seems to refer to every kind of endowment by which we can do good to others. It does not refer here particularly to the ministry of the word, though it is applicable to that, and includes that, but to all the gifts and graces by which we can contribute to the welfare of others.

Christmas should inproportionately focus upon Christ and giving. In fact, Christ is THE GIFT from God to mankind. Today, the value of gifts monetarily is of great concern and every wife knows the pressure of the season as she starts her shopping journey. Paradoxical to our societal norms rests gifts that really have no monetary value, but are rooted in metaphysical things that change hearts and lives.

The Gift of Listening: This gift truly requires one to listen not just to daydream or plan a response. Listening requires your full attention, to attend closely. Listen to your loved ones. Listen to God.

The Gift of Affection: Affectionate means to be tender; attached; loving; devoted; warm; fond; earnest; and ardent. Your affection to a loved one can be the best gift given. Express your affection to your Savior—be devoted and earnest in our prayer.

The Gift of Laughter: Modern Science has labeled laughter as a natural high. In a recent article in Newsweek Magazine, scientist discovered that laughter activates the same portion of the brain as cocaine. The bible states, "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;" (Ecclesiastes 3:4 KJV)

The Gift of a Written Note: This gift can be a short poem or a letter expressing your feelings to a loved one. Many times brief, hand written notes are remembered for a long time.

The Gift of a Compliment: Complimenting or recognizing someone for their kind deeds, performance, or looks can alter that persons perspective of themselves as well as brighten their day. Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad. (Proverbs 12:25 KJV)

The Gift of a Favor: Or the gift of a good deed. It is the gift of going out of your way to do something kind. The Golden Rule: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. (Matthew 7:12 KJV)

The Gift of Solitude: There are times when some only want to be left alone. Our gift is to allow or discern those times and willingly give solitude or alone time to that person.

The Gift of a Cheerful Disposition: Be kind and be cheerful. This involves how we act and speak. Expect good things from people and be cheerful to them.

L.O. Baird said this, “May no gift be too small to give, nor too simple to receive, which is wrapped in thoughtfulness, and tied in love.” Jesus Christ was God’s gift of eternal life to humanity…we should continue the spirit of giving our time, our willingness, our affections, our love, and ourselves to Him and others.