The Gift That Changes You- Acts 20:35
“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.”- Acts 20:35 -
As the Christmas season wraps our world in warm lights, peppermint scents, and the sound of carols drifting through the air, there’s something deeper stirring beneath the surface, something powerful, something eternal. This time of year reminds us of gifts, but not just the kind under a tree. It reminds us of the kind that change hearts, strengthen community, and reveal who we truly are. It’s in this spirit that Acts 20:35 speaks straight into our souls: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” And maybe, just maybe, this is the verse we need most right now.
Giving isn’t about having a lot. Giving isn’t about looking impressive. Giving isn’t even about showing people how nice you are. Real giving, the kind Jesus modeled for us, is about the heart. It’s about noticing someone who needs a little light and deciding to be the one who brings it. Christmas can sometimes make people feel pressure to buy big gifts or show up in glamorous ways, but God’s definition of giving is beautifully different. His kind of giving is humble, sincere, and often happens where no one else sees.
When Jesus said those words in Acts 20:35, He was reminding us that there’s a joy that only giving unlocks. Not the kind of joy that comes from having the latest phone or the perfect outfit, but the joy that comes from seeing someone else lifted up because you chose to be generous. That joy doesn’t fade. It doesn’t break. It doesn’t go out of style. It becomes part of you, part of your character, part of your walk with God.
And the truth is, giving doesn’t always mean money. Sometimes the gift someone needs most is your time. Your kindness. Your patience. Your listening ear. Your willingness to forgive. Your ability to make someone feel seen. These are gifts with eternal value. Some of the greatest acts of giving in the Bible weren’t extravagant; they were simply acts of love. A boy shares his lunch. A woman breaking her perfume to honor Jesus. Friends lowered a man through the roof just so he could reach Jesus. These gifts weren’t spotlight-worthy, but they moved heaven.
This Christmas, God may place someone on your heart, and your giving might be the very thing that reminds them they’re not alone. Maybe it’s a friend who’s been sad but doesn’t talk about it. Maybe it’s a sibling who needs patience more than anything. Maybe it’s a parent who could use your help without having to ask. Maybe it’s a stranger you pass who just needs a smile. Maybe it’s someone who wronged you, and your act of giving is found in choosing forgiveness instead of bitterness. Scripture reminds us that when we give in these ways, we reflect Jesus Himself, the One who gave everything for us, not because we deserved it, but because love gives.
And as you learn to give with this kind of heart, something begins to shift inside you. Your faith deepens. Your compassion grows. Your eyes begin to see the world the way God does. Every act of generosity makes your heart more like Christ’s. You start realizing that giving doesn’t just change the person who receives it, it changes you. It softens you, strengthens you, shapes you. It teaches you humility. It opens your hands. It opens your heart.
This Christmas season, ask God to make you bold in giving. Not just with what you have, but with who you are. Let Him lead you to moments where your generosity becomes a doorway for His love to shine. Whether you’re giving a meal, a hug, a prayer, a compliment, or forgiveness, you are becoming part of God’s answer to someone else’s prayer. That’s powerful. That’s holy. That’s Christmas.
So as the lights glow and the world celebrates, carry Acts 20:35 with you. Let it be more than a verse, let it be a lifestyle. Let giving be your worship. Let kindness be your offering. Let love be your gift. And watch how God uses your hands to bring hope, healing, and joy into places that need it most.
Because at the end of the day, the greatest gifts aren’t wrapped. They’re lived. And when you choose to give, you’ll discover the truth Jesus spoke, the blessing doesn’t come from what you receive, it comes from what you’re willing to release.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for being the greatest gift the world has ever received. As I walk through this Christmas season, fill my heart with Your generosity, Your compassion, and Your love. Help me see the needs around me with Your eyes, and give me the courage and willingness to give in ways that honor You. Teach me to give with joy, with humility, and with a heart that reflects Your character. Let my life be a light that blesses others and brings glory to Your name.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
WORSHIP
Heartfelt Christmas Gifts for the Faith-Filled Life | Holiday Gift Guide
For believers, Christmas it’s a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus and reflect on the incredible gift God gave us. As you begin your holiday shopping, choosing gifts with spiritual meaning can turn simple presents into moments of encouragement, reminders of faith, and seeds of hope.
Thoughtful Christian gifts don’t need to be extravagant. A beautifully designed devotional can inspire someone’s quiet moments with God. A piece of faith-inspired clothing can remind them daily of God’s promises. A handcrafted candle, mug, or artwork with Scripture can fill their home with warmth and truth. Even small items like prayer journals, Bible tabs, or personalized bookmarks can create meaningful moments that last long after Christmas.
Think about what each person in your life needs spiritually this season. Does someone need peace? Choose a gift with verses about God’s rest. Does another need courage? Find something decorated with Scripture about strength. Gifts that point people back to Jesus are gifts that continue giving long after the tree is taken down.
This year, let your Christmas gifts carry the message of love, hope, and faith. When you give with intention, you mirror the heart of the One who gave us the greatest gift of all.
This season, NEWHEIGHTS is bringing our carefully curated Holiday Gift Guide. Every item was handpicked with purpose, designed to help you give gifts that speak the language of faith and love. Think cozy, meaningful, and uplifting gifts that feel good to give and even better to receive. Whether you’re shopping for your best friend, your youth group leader, or someone who just needs a little hope right now, NEWHEIGHTS’s guide makes it easy to find something that truly hits the heart.
