The Biblical Saying “Better to Give than to Receive” Sheds Light on Black Friday Exhaustion – Guest Commentary

The holiday shopping season is about to kick off, but are we experiencing some fatigue from Black Friday? Do we truly need all these items, even if they’re advertised as “doorbusters”? This doesn’t seem like it can fulfill us…so what now?

Let’s be honest. Black Friday and Cyber Monday have a certain charm. Incredible discounts, must-have items, and exclusive deals make them appealing. According to research, American consumers reportedly spent over $10 billion online on Black Friday alone. When in-store purchases are factored in, U.S. retail revenue shot past $20 billion. Just look at these figures:

• Online sales during Black Friday 2024 rose by 10.2%.
• The typical shopper was expected to spend around $650 during the Black Friday to Cyber Monday period.
• Last year, 87.3 million Americans shopped online on Black Friday.
• 66.9% of shoppers over Thanksgiving weekend made their purchases on Black Friday.

While it’s indeed the busiest shopping time of the year, are these deals truly valuable amidst the frenzy? With constant temptations to buy, many of us can feel overwhelmed and pressured to purchase items we don’t even need. It’s worth noting that the sentiment of “it’s better to give than to receive” resonates strongly in our culture.

Examining Cultural Patterns

Why does Black Friday leave us feeling drained? As a child, I chased excitement, thriving on thrills like everyone else. Yet, growing up brought clarity; the joy came not from acquiring items but from the people with whom I shared my time.

Looking toward 2025 and 2026, it seems the expectations around gifts, sales, and perfect holidays are only growing. However, many Americans are feeling financial strain—87% report stress, 41% have trouble sticking to a budget, and over a quarter spend beyond their means. It’s tempting to think, “Why stick to a budget when you can charge it and deal with it later?”

Regrettably, as society leans into the mindset of “more is better,” our spiritual well-being can begin to suffer. Many of us are experiencing, as some describe it, spiritual bankruptcy. When we don’t find ways to replenish our emotional resources, we risk overdrawing our spiritual bank account. Though recognizing the issue is step one, what’s the answer?

A New Perspective

Looking at the Bible, the teachings of Jesus flip our expectations. It’s better to give than to receive. It might seem strange; who wouldn’t prefer to receive over giving? But at its essence, Christianity promotes a lifestyle grounded in joy, community, and the satisfaction that comes from selflessness. Jesus’ perspective shifts our focus towards living well.

Receiving, especially when anticipated or excessive, can lead to a kind of mental paralysis. But giving, on the other hand, brings a sense of fulfillment. As we give, we’re reminded that God will reward us in ways that matter far more than material possessions. When opportunities arise to give, let’s think of embodying a spirit of love.

Understanding Our Cravings

Choosing to give can be a challenge. We live in a culture that constantly pushes us to desire more. The pressure to compare ourselves to others can lead to anxiety. We often convince ourselves that by acquiring more, we’ll find happiness. Yet, the paradox is that wanting more usually leaves us feeling empty. It’s a cycle that stifles joy.

Jesus cautioned us regarding earthly treasures, advocating for a focus on eternal values instead. The take from Matthew 6:19-21 advises us not to hoard possessions where they can be lost or stolen but to invest in things that cannot be diminished. Our fulfillment truly stems from our relationships, not our acquisitions. Recognizing this can help realign our hearts during this season.

Realigning Our Focus

This holiday season, consider shifting your mindset from consuming to showing compassion. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and everything in between represent opportunities for generosity. It’s not about racing to buy everything on your list but rather enjoying moments of kindness and care.

If financial giving isn’t feasible for you, remember that non-material gifts—like your time and support—are incredibly valuable. They reflect the generosity we see in Jesus. Here are some practical steps to help you adopt a more giving approach:

• 1. Set a budget. Consider not only your finances but also your mental space. Ask for guidance in what you give and to whom.
• 2. Aim for weekly acts of kindness. Help someone in need regularly, whether that’s holding a door for someone or surprising someone with a coffee.
• 3. Choose meaningful gifts. Rather than physical items, reach out with a call, write a note, or plan an experience to share.
• 4. Reflect before buying. Before making a purchase, assess whether it’s truly necessary, and think of someone else who might benefit from what you already own.
• 5. Ask yourself key questions. Instead of acting on impulse when wanting something, reflect on whether it would actually help you love others better.

Our culture continually pushes for “more,” but we can choose a different path. Focus on what truly brings lasting joy and consider how you can give more than you receive this season. Let’s aim for a holiday period that centers on thoughtful generosity and aligns with the values we hold dear.

A Prayer for Contentment

Dear Jesus,
Help us to escape the grip of consumerism and cultivate a heart filled with generosity and presence. May this holiday season be marked by giving rather than receiving, transforming ourselves and those around us. Thank you for exemplifying these principles so beautifully. We praise you.