Will I have enough money to buy gifts for everyone? Will my gifts be good enough? What if someone gets me something “better” than I get them? I’ll make it up to them next year. These questions and thoughts have played over and over in my head as Christmas loomed this year.

Because I recently moved into a new home in the city, and developed relationships with new people, the gift-giving season has become a balancing act. Of course, this season brings stress every year—from visiting family, to attending parties to traveling from one house to the next—but this year the extra burden of finances has brought me to a whole new level of anxiety. When I calculate my budget before each shopping trip, I am reminded of just how tight this year is.

Have you ever been in this place? No matter how carefully you budget, you never seem to have enough money. Will next Christmas be different? Will people understand? Will people like their gifts?

Thankfully, before I get too far down this road, I am able to ease my mind by praying and turning to God during these troubling times. He reminds me of the true meaning of Christmas—and the blessing of the time I am given to share with the people who matter most.

As Christmas draws closer, I invite you to turn to God to ease your stress. You can meditate on these five verses to calm your mind as you finish your shopping for your Christmas celebration: 

1. Philippians 4:19-20 (GNTD)
   And with all his abundant wealth through Christ Jesus, my God will supply all your needs. To our God and Father be the glory forever and ever! Amen.
2. Proverbs 3:5-6 (GNTD)
   Trust in the LORD with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. Remember the LORD in everything you do, and he will show you the right way.
3. John 14:27 (GNTD)
   Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid.  
4. Psalm 94:18-19 (GNTD)
   I said, “I am falling”; but your constant love, O LORD, held me up. Whenever I am anxious and worried, you comfort me and make me glad.
5. Matthew 6:20-21 (GNTD)
   Instead, store up riches for yourselves in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and robbers cannot break in and steal. For your heart will always be where your riches are.