With Thanksgiving behind us and December well on it’s way, Santa Claus will soon start checking his mailbox in expectation. Millions of letters from children nationwide will promptly lick their stamps and stuff their envelopes with wish lists as lengthy as their imagination. From two front teeth to hopalong boots, Santa and his elves will have their hands full this season for sure.

Of course, Santa will need to take a few days out of his crazy schedule to visit some local shopping malls and meet his fans in person. Santa’s PR team knows how important face-to-face time is for a business as successful as Mr. Claus’s. Anyway, the lines will spill out the doors with jumpy little boys and giddy little girls.

As a 20-year-old, however, I might not make it past Santa’s security system at the mall for the chance to squish his lap. My envelope will most likely be tossed aside at the North Pole to be replaced by the list of an elementary schooler, and my name was wiped off of the naughty/nice list years ago. So who do I get to make requests to this Christmas?

Jesus Christ is the best and most faithful gift-giver, because He gives generously to everyone who asks. I wrote up a short list of things I will be asking Him for Christmas this year, as unconventional and untraditional as it seems. Prayerfully, this list will encourage others to put down their shopping catalogs and request the more precious things from Jesus.

1. A steadfast spirit.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10

2. A patient attitude.

“Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” Proverbs 14:29

3. A habit of hope.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

4. A life of strength.

“But You, Lord, do not be far from me. You are my strength; come quickly to help me.” Psalm 22:19

5. A bold testimony.

“And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike.” Ephesians 6:19

6. A fearless mindset.

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7

7. A tireless posture.

“So let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9

8. A selfless character.

“Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain.” Psalm 119: 36

9. A kind vocabulary.

“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Proverbs 16:24

10. A gentle demeanor.

“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” Philippians 4:5

11. A humble self.

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.” James 4:10

12. A life of self-control.

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” James 1:19

13. A wise soul.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5

14. A unified church.

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” Psalm 133:1

15. A peaceful nature.

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Colossians 3:15

16. An obedient willingness.

“Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” John 14:23

17. A thankful heart.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

This Christmas season, let's ask the Giver Of All Things for the gifts that matter the most. Luke 11:13 says, "If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him." So be encouraged in the truth, and have a Merry Christmas!