How will you respond when your mate gives you something special this Christmas? Will you wear a never-ending smile, or will disappointment and avoidance become your apparel? The pressure of finding the right gift can cause you to lose sight of what is important. Before you make your Christmas wish list, reflect on two invaluable gifts you already have as a Christian spouse.
A Gift Undeserved
God gave the most important gift— His only son, Jesus, Emmanuel (“God with us”). Isaiah announced, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
Jesus came in humility. Mary and Joseph did not put Him in a golden bed after His birth. He slept in a manger—a place where animals consume their food. God gave Jesus to save His people from their sins.
Jesus is a sacred gift. He is holy and without sin. Had He not ransomed His life for sinners, all humanity would remain hopeless with a death sentence. Instead, He paid the sin debt with His blood. All who believe, turn from sin and trust Jesus as their Savior will receive the gift of eternal life. Christ is worthy of our devotion.
A Gift Unsealed
God wrapped and presented a covenant marriage to you and your spouse. When the two of you accepted this commitment on your wedding day, you opened a package filled with a lifetime of discoveries. You welcomed your spouse to share love, laughter, and respect as you travel through life’s ups and downs.
To make the most of this gift and fortify your marital bond, do the following:
· Do not waste precious time sweating the small things.
· Live in oneness.
· Practice truthfulness
· Give what you have in service to the world, the church, and family.
Having a mate to enjoy and share life’s experiences with is an exceptional gift. This Christmas, thank the Giver of good gifts for the blessings He has already provided to you. The Bible says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17)
Christ gave, loved, served, and sacrificed. How will you give, love, serve, and sacrifice in your marriage?
This article first appeared in The Birmingham Christian Family Magazine.
