Financing Christmas: A Guide for Christians
By: Alex Cook
For people who base their life on Biblical principals, Christmas begins with understanding that this season is about more than gifts and decorations—it’s a time of reflecting on the birth of Jesus Christ.
Yet, for many, it can also bring financial challenges and the temptation to overspend. For Christians, managing their finances during Christmas requires intentional stewardship that honours God, follows biblical principles, and supports the values of generosity and community.
Here’s how you can prepare your finances for Christmas while keeping Christ at the centre of your celebrations.
1. Establish a Christ-Centred Budget
Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” Before diving into the holiday rush, set a clear and realistic budget that reflects your financial limits and priorities.
List Expenses: Include gifts, decorations, food, travel, and charitable giving.
Set Limits: Decide on a total amount you can afford and allocate it across each category.
Use Cash or Debit Cards: Consider using cash envelopes or debit cards to avoid overspending. Ditch the credit card!
2. Plan for Generosity
Christmas is a season of giving, and as Christians, we are called to be generous. 2 Corinthians 9:7 encourages us to give cheerfully, but also within our means.
Give First: Prioritise giving to your church or ministries before other expenses.
Charitable Acts: Look for local opportunities to serve or donate, such as food banks or shelters.
Non-Monetary Giving: Offer your time, skills, or talents as a complement (not an alternative) to financial contributions.
Invite others: Know someone who will be alone at Christmas? Why not invite them to your celebrations.
3. Avoid Debt and Materialism
The world often equates Christmas with extravagant spending, but Romans 12:2 calls us to resist conforming to worldly patterns.
Avoid Credit Card Debt: Only spend what you can afford to pay off immediately.
Focus on Value, Not Price: Thoughtful, meaningful gifts often carry more significance than expensive ones.
Teach Contentment: Share the joy of simplicity with your family by focusing on experiences and gratitude rather than material possessions.
4. Embrace a Spirit of Simplicity
Luke 12:15 warns, “Life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Simplifying your Christmas celebrations can relieve financial pressure and refocus your heart on Christ.
Host Modest Gatherings: Plan simple meals instead of elaborate feasts.
DIY Decorations and Gifts: Get creative with homemade crafts or baked goods. This can be a great way to get kids involved in Christmas celebrations.
Practice Minimalism: Reduce the number of gifts exchanged within your family or opt for a surprise exchange approach to limit spending.
5. Plan Ahead for Next Year
Learning from this year’s financial experience can help you better prepare for future Christmas seasons.
Start a Christmas Fund: Save a small amount each month throughout the year.
Shop Early: Take advantage of sales and spread out purchases to avoid last-minute financial strain.
Reflect on Spending: Keep a record of this year’s expenses and identify areas for improvement.
6. Keep Christ at the Centre
Isaiah 9:6 reminds us of the true reason for Christmas: the birth of our Saviour. Let your financial decisions reflect this central truth.
Share the Gospel: Use Christmas as an opportunity to show God’s love through your actions and conversations.
Pray Over Your Finances: Seek God’s guidance in how to steward your resources for His glory.
Let Christmas Reflect Your Faith
Preparing financially for Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. By aligning your spending with biblical principles, you can create a season that reflects your faith, prioritises generosity, and strengthens your relationship with God and others.
This Christmas, let your financial stewardship be an act of worship, honouring the One who gave us the greatest gift of all—His Son, Jesus Christ.
Have a blessed Christmas!
Article supplied with thanks to Wealth with Purpose.
About the Author: Alex is a licensed financial planner and the founder of Wealth with Purpose, a stewardship based organisation that helps Christians handle their money God’s way.
