Birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and Christmas seem to be here every time you turn around. I have, with a little creativity, found a way to buy gifts at very affordable prices without breaking the budget. With prices at an all time high for basic necessities gift shopping can get overwhelming if you are on a budget. As tithers serving the Lord, we should be able to see His blessing in our lives no matter what is happening in the natural. With a little planning you should be able to purchase gifts at much better prices. Proverbs 16:9 (Amplified) says, “A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps and makes them sure.” As you plan He will direct your steps and show you where you should shop. Don’t worry it doesn’t take great organizational skills in order for you to make a list.
Here is a simple way to make some shopping strategies. Begin by making a list of the gifts you normally buy throughout the year. This may not be an all-inclusive list because there are unforeseen events. Most of us have a set of events that come around each year so make sure to include those in your list. Once you’ve made your list, figure out how much you will be able to spend each week or month. Do not figure out your amount based on the amount of gifts you need to buy. I have found that no matter the amount you want to spend you will find something in that price range.
During your normal shopping routine look out for sales, discounts, or special offers. If you want to save extra, look for items with more than one discount. An item on sale with an additional percentage off will produce greater savings. This is where you will find the best discounts. If you can’t find those types of deals, don’t worry. You can count on there being a sale every time you are out. How many times have we seen something with a tremendous mark down and said, “What a great deal”? Many of us would not think to buy it for a future gift, but with a strategy you will be able to know exactly what you need. Stores are constantly marking down merchandise in order to bring in new items. Right after a season ends is when sales are the greatest, but don’t think clothes are the only items marked down! Everything from clothing to house wares is marked down. If you are in need of an item before the season ends you can know there will always be a regular sale. Retailers are always running some type of sale in order to get you in their doors. They are counting on you purchasing other items at regular prices. If all you do is choose not to pay retail, you will see savings. The reason we pay full price for things is because we are usually in a hurry. “Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity" (Proverbs 21:5a NLT), always believe God to be at the right place at the right time. Don’t forget to keep your list updated. You are now ready to start shopping!
Submitted by Marissa Paledino. Marissa is the wife of Pastor John Paledino in Tampa, Florida.