Deals of the World or Riches of the Soul? Orthodox Thoughts on Black Friday

Black Friday has become a cultural event, marked by long lines, midnight openings, and a rush for the best deals. For many, it’s a day to score bargains and start holiday shopping. But as Orthodox Christians, it’s worth asking: how does this fit into our faith? Are we prioritizing the deals of the world over the riches of the soul?

Let’s take a moment to reflect on what this day represents and how we can approach it with an Orthodox mindset.

The World’s Focus: Material Gain

The culture surrounding Black Friday feeds a craving for material things. Sales and advertisements push us to believe we need more to be happy or fulfilled. Yet the Scriptures caution us about the dangers of this mindset:

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36)

Saint John Chrysostom also warns:

"The rich man is not one who is in possession of much, but one who gives much."

This is a call to reflect on where we invest our time, money, and energy. Are we focusing on fleeting deals or on eternal treasures that cannot be taken away?

The Orthodox Perspective: Eternal Riches

The Orthodox Christian faith teaches us that true riches are found in Christ and His Kingdom. These riches include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and humility—the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Unlike material possessions, these treasures grow the more we give them away.

Saint Basil the Great reminds us:

"We should not live for ourselves alone, but for others. The goods we possess are not ours, but theirs."

This perspective invites us to look beyond the shopping frenzy and instead focus on acts of love and generosity.

How to Navigate Black Friday as an Orthodox Christian

1. Practice Gratitude Instead of Accumulation

   • Before shopping, take a moment to thank God for what you already have. A heart filled with gratitude is less likely to be swayed by materialism.

   • Prayer of Gratitude: Glory to Thee, O Lord, for all that I have been given, and for all that I do not need.

2. Give Generously

   • Consider redirecting a portion of your Black Friday budget to help those in need. Support a local food bank, donate to Orthodox charities, or offer alms through your parish.

   • Orthodox Tip: Many parishes have holiday giving programs—this is a great time to participate.

3. Shop Mindfully

   • If you do shop, approach it with intention. Make a list of what is necessary and avoid impulse purchases. Remember, good stewardship of your finances is a spiritual practice.

   • Consider supporting small businesses, ethical brands, or artisans who create items with care and integrity.

4. Seek Spiritual Riches

   • Dedicate time to prayer, reading the Scriptures, or participating in a church service. Remember, Black Friday falls within the Nativity Fast, a season of preparation and spiritual renewal.

   • Suggested reading: The Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:16-21), which reminds us that life is not about the abundance of possessions.

   
   

Reorienting Our Focus

Black Friday doesn’t have to be a distraction from faith. Instead, it can be an opportunity to reorient our focus. Let the world chase after deals, but let us, as Orthodox Christians, chase after the riches of the soul.

As Christ said:

“Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).

Final Thoughts

The hustle of Black Friday can tempt us to prioritize material gain, but it’s also a chance to reflect on what truly matters. Are we filling our homes with things or filling our hearts with love? Are we chasing temporary discounts or eternal joy?

This Black Friday, may we remember that the greatest riches are found not in what we acquire, but in what we give and how we grow closer to God.