6 Gifts That Always Fit

Have you ever wanted to give a gift to someone, but weren't really sure what to give?  Well let's take a look at some gifts that never get old no matter how many times you give them.  Actually, the more you give them, the better they become!  And with Christmas just around the corner, this may be just what YOU need!

1. A Smile.

Hey, it's one of the easiest ways to show you care. It doesn't have to be big and grinny, just genuine. It can show a lonely person you care, it can lift somebody's spirits, and it's just a small way to give little glimpse of God's love.

Ephesians 4:32 (NIV), “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

2. A Listening Ear.

The world's full of advice-givers and people who love to hear the sound of their own voices. But listening is a rare and valuable gift in any friendship. When you listen carefully, you silently communicate: "You're important. I care about what you have to say because I care about you."

James 1:19 (NLT), “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.”

3. Encouragement.

Cheer on a friend. Let someone know when he or she has done a good job. Give a little encouragement to a friend who feels like a failure. Here's how to take this whole encouragement thing up a notch: Make an Encouragement Book for someone who needs extra support. Paste uplifting pictures, quotes and Bible verses into a notebook or inexpensive journal. Decorate the cover—wrapping paper is optional.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NLT), “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”

4. A Helping Hand.

Let's imagine a tough situation. You have a friend whose parents are going through a divorce. With all the hurt he's experiencing, he's also got a lot more responsibility around the house. Maybe it's babysitting a little sis. Or possibly, he has to help cook meals or clean the house more than he used to. Offer to help out. Look for ways to put hands and feet to your concern and love for another person—especially someone who's hurting.

Hebrews 13:16 (ESV), “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”

5. Volunteering.

Talk to your youth pastor about places where you could serve over the holidays. Maybe you could visit lonely people at a nursing home. Possibly a local food pantry needs extra help. Just do something to demonstrate your concern for others less fortunate than you. And don't just make it a holiday thing. Plan regular times throughout the year to reach out and help others.

Philippians 2:4 (ESV), “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

6. Your Talent.

Play the guitar? Lead worship for children's church. Handy with a camera? Take photos of your family's holiday gatherings. Got a knack for fixing something old and broken down? Use your knowledge to help fix it!

Romans 12:6 (ESV), “Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them…”

I hope this helps you realize that you have gifts that you can give to others everyday of the year...and not just on Christmas.