My husband and I stayed in our first home for almost two years. I never imagined I’d one day consider two years in one location as a luxury. We’ve moved many times since then and left behind a number of dear friends.
A couple months ago, several of my long-distance girlfriends went through hard times. They all lived in different states, and visiting them wasn’t possible, so I decided to send care packages. The deep thanks from my friends confirmed the packages weren’t just bubble envelopes filled with gifts. They were fresh drafts of encouragement.
Whether your friends live miles away or right next door, you can assemble a meaningful mix of gifts. Here are some ideas:
- Food treats—favorite candy, homemade cookies/muffins/bread, nuts, snacks
- Tea, coffee, or favorite drink mixes
- Beauty products, such as lip balm, lotion, or skin scrubs (lots of recipes online for cheap and easy homemade scrubs!)
- Supplies for your friend’s hobby
- Photos or other mementos from a recent visit
- An article from a magazine or blog that you think will encourage your friend
- A magazine or book you’ve read that applies to her life at present
- A prayer you’ve copied from a prayer book or the Psalms and personalized to your friend
- If you’re a crafty type, an item made by you
- A journal or notebook you’ve filled with prayers for your friend
- Small gifts suitable to her interests (for example, bookmark, stationery, cooking gadget, recipe cards, beaded bracelet, or gift card)
- A letter or card with a message in your own words. Tell her why you’ve been thinking of her, what you’re praying for her, or how you can see God at work in her life.
Once you’ve gathered all the items for your care package, decide how you will package them. You might place everything in one basket or bag and deliver it. Or you may want to wrap each item individually before packing them into a container. If you need to mail the care package, make sure you’ve packaged everything appropriately—especially baked goods or any breakable items.
Before you deliver or mail the care package, take a few moments to pray over it. Ask the Lord to use those gifts to draw your friend closer to Himself. Ask Him to encourage her when she receives the package. Pray the package will come at the perfect moment.
James 5:15 says God responds to the prayer of faith, offered on behalf of the sick. He responds by raising up the sick. Your friend’s sickness may be physical, emotional, financial, spiritual, or something you can’t even discern. But through your care and your prayers, God can raise your friend up.
By Rachelle Dawson, The Mover
Leave a Comment
Kristen Strong says
I *adore* this, Rachelle. Beautiful wisdom blended with practical tips. LOVE.
Rachelle Dawson says
Thanks, Kristen. I’m not sure we can really call something wisdom if it’s not practical.
Holley Gerth says
What a fun, creative post! I’ve been thinking lately about new ways to encourage my faraway peeps and this is a great tool. Thanks for sharing this with us, Rachel! XO
Rachelle Dawson says
I hope your packages give them exactly what they need, Holley.
Lisa says
What sweet thoughts and ideas.
An Invitation to Encouragement | Rachelle Dawson says
[…] speaks to my own needs, I’m honored they are featuring my guest post today. Head over and read “A Simple Guide to Care Packages” for some practical suggestions on assembling gifts for the special friends in your […]
Beth Williams says
Thank you Rachelle for some practical tips on how to encourage people. I just love the idea of care packages. Our church used to assemble care packages for troops overseas. It was a way to say thanks we’re thinking of you!!
I may just do this for some special people in my life!
God Bless!! 🙂
Rachelle Dawson says
Yes, this doesn’t have to be a practice strictly for close friends. I used to attend a church that sent out regular packages to the missionary families the church supported. It might also be a good idea for moms of new babies or church members who are ill, even if we don’t know them very well.
Ellie Spindler says
I love these suggestions for care packages – some ideas that I had never thought of! Thank you so much for sharing, Rachelle!
Rachelle Dawson says
Glad you found it helpful. Now maybe you have a use for some of those blank journals sitting around the house! 🙂 I have a fondness for journals too.
Kay says
I love this! I’ve Pinned it and now I’m going to do it! I’ve sent care packages to my kids at camp or college, but never to a friend. And I have a friend in mind right now who could use one. Love it!
Rachelle Dawson says
Kay, I’m so glad to hear you’ll be putting the idea into practice. I pray your friend will be encouraged.
ninja mega says
I do believe all the ideas you’ve introduced on your post. They’re very convincing and can certainly work. Nonetheless, the posts are too quick for newbies. Could you please prolong them a little from next time? Thanks for the post.
Encouragement From a Care Package: Religious Gift Ideas | The Printery House says
[…] are lots of days when a small present could really make the trek a bit more cheerful. An unexpected care package is fun to put together and when you use some of our religious gift ideas, it can also become an […]