Okay, be honest now. When you think of Christmas, what do you think of first-Santa, Chia Pets or JC in a manger?

If visions of shopping malls are dancing in your head, you're not alone. Christmas is the biggest time of year for retailers, and the biggest shopping day of all is the day after Thanksgiving. It's known as "Black Friday" to many retailers. Why? That's because that shopping day is so big and important to retailers, it will either make or break them for the year, bringing them "out of the red" and into 'the black" financially. That's why you can't turn on your TV without seeing a commercial for Chia Pets or Gap Chino Pants.

Christmas can be really tough if you're a teen. Why? Because if you're a teen, you literally were born to shop. In 1987, the number of malls in America surpassed the number of public high schools. Big businesses count on you to be big spenders, whether it's at the video store or a vending machine. If you're a teen guy, you spend an average of $70 on yourself a week. If you're a teen girl, you spend about $64. And at holiday time, you spend even more. Wowza.

But chances are, you can't remember all of the gifts you got two Christmases ago.

So where do you draw the line? Do you buy everything on your shopping list or do you roast that list on an open fire like chestnuts?

Here are some things to think about:

Would you really think you needed a Chia Pet if someone didn't tell you that you needed one? Lots of things you think you need, you really don't. Take for instance, that Pickachu Pokey Man card that you just had to have four years ago. Where is that card now? Probably somewhere in the bottom of your closet with your Tickle Me Elmo and Salad Shooter. You get the drift. Don't let advertisers tell you what you need. Turn off the TV already and put on a good Christmas CD or do a little caroling yourself. You don't need to be on America's Idol to sing loud and off key.

If You're Broke, Give Your Time. Instead of searching between cushions of your couch for change to buy your grandpa some cheap aftershave, get him something that he'd really appreciate-your time. Make coupons or certificates for the elderly on your shopping list, that are good for things like FREE SHOVELING, GOOD FOR ONE NIGHT OF SCRABBLE PLAYING, REDEEM FOR ONE WEEK'S WORTH OF GROCERY SHOPPING. You get the idea.

Holiday Switch. If you're family is up to it, celebrate New Year's on Christmas and Christmas on New Years. Stay up late on Christmas Eve (until midnight) and ring in Jesus's newest birthday. Then, wait until New Year's Day to do your gift exchange. That way, you can take advantage of all of the after Christmas sales, on everything from fruitcake to wrapping paper, and get more bang for your buck.

Instead of giving a gift, why not give up something? This works good with siblings. Instead of giving your little brother another action figure that your dog will eventually chew off the legs, why not give up one of your annoying habits? For instance, pounding on the bathroom door while he's brushing his teeth? Or, screaming to Mom when he wants to watch Rug Rats and you want to watch something else? Giving Up a Bad Habit or Annoying Behavior can be the best gift of all. And with all of the money you save, go ahead and splurge on your youth pastor.

Or better yet, use it to buy something for someone who doesn't enjoy Christmas. To a lot of kids, Christmas isn't a fun time, but a sad time. Their families can't afford a Christmas tree, let alone gifts that go under it. Find a family or ministry to support and give them a Christmas they will never forget. Or, donate time at a soup kitchen or food pantry. You'd be surprised how good it feels to help others.

Remember, baby Jesus didn't come into the world so you can max out a credit card. He came so you can have a free gift that you can enjoy way after the season's over. And you don't need to be a mallrat to enjoy that.

Want a great lesson on spending for urban teens or young adult ministry? Check out Ya Gonna Bank Roll That Bling Bling? Or Free Designer Gear