3 Divine Christmas Presents not Under Our Tree

When we think of Christmas presents, our thoughts ponder what to buy that family member who has everything.

Or there’s the person who is particular.

Perhaps we wonder what treasures lay under the tree for us.

But as we head toward Christmas, let’s discuss presents not found under our tree.

Because these are not typical Christmas gifts.

Instead, they are gifts money cannot buy.

They are intangible, yet wonderful.

And these presents gift us with some of the most glorious things in life.

(1.) Divine Christmas Present: Forgiveness

According to Merriam-Webster, forgiveness is “To cease to feel resentment against (an offender): PARDON: forgive one’s enemies.”

Several forms of the word in the Greek are used in the Bible: aphiemi means “to send forth, send away”; “to remit or forgive” as in completely canceling debts (Blue Letter Bible/Vine’s Expository Dictionary).

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 (ESV)

“Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Matthew 6:12 (ESV)

To give and receive forgiveness, we thank God for forgiving us of our sins. And we continue to confess and repent when we fail to obey Him.

Next, we ask others to forgive us for any missteps against them. Then, we generously forgive others of hurts and offenses.

Finally, we strive to keep a short account with God and people. We ask the Lord to give us the ability to extend forgiveness, ask for forgiveness, and truly see it as a gift.

To give and receive forgiveness, we strive to keep a short account with God and people. We confess and repent of sin and lack of obedience to God. We ask others for forgiveness and generously forgive hurts and offenses toward us. Share on X

(2.) Divine Christmas Present: Encouragement

Google defines it as, “the action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope.”

Encouragement gifts us with the support, inspiration, confidence, hope, and courage we need. And when we need it the most. 

This present really makes a difference in our lives. 

In words: I believe in you. I’m so proud of you. I’m cheering you on. 

In actions:

• A friend meets us for coffee/tea during a discouraging time.
• We receive a text with encouraging Scripture. 
• Someone is there for us during an illness or tragedy or hardship.
• An email brightens our day.

In the Bible: “For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.” Romans 1:11-12 (ESV)

“For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.” Romans 1:11-12 (ESV) Share on X

To give and receive encouragement, we become more intentional to encourage others in words and actions and biblically. Also, we reach out to friends and family when we are discouraged. We let someone know what we are going through.

(3.) Divine Christmas Present: Grace

Google defines grace as “courteous goodwill.” So I find it interesting how grace plays a major role in the Christmas story along with goodwill (desire to do good to others, act of kindness, charitable gift). 

Grace came in the form of a baby in Bethlehem. Grace grew into a man who spoke about God’s Kingdom and performed miracles. And Grace died on Calvary’s cross, rose from the dead, and now sits at the right hand of the Father.

Because God extended grace to us, and continues to extend grace, we extend it to each other.

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 (ESV) “For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.” John 1:16 (ESV)

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV)

God extended amazing grace to us at such a high price, His Son. 

God extended amazing grace to us at such a high price, His Son.  Share on X

“Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound) That sav’d a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, Was blind, but now I see.” (John Newton)

To give and receive grace, we remind our hearts of God’s divine grace through His Son, Jesus. We dispense grace to others because we know how much we need it ourselves.

Giving and Receiving

When we reflect on all we know about these divine Christmas presents, we conclude each one is wonderful to give and receive.

While forgiveness, encouragement and grace are not under our tree, we choose to wrap them in love and humbly offer them this Christmas and year-round.

Which present is most difficult for you to receive? Give?

Featured images from our latest video on our YouTube Channel, Friday’s Forever.

Also see, 4 Ways to Unveil the King of Glory for Christmas.

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Sometimes I participate in these link-ups:

Legacy Linkup/Inspire Me Monday/Tell His Story/Recharge Wednesday/Let’s Have Coffee/Tune in Thursday/Embracing the Unexpected (Grace & Truth) and Faith On Fire.

© 2021 by Karen Friday, All rights reserved