Any list of college graduation gift ideas should begin with items that don’t carry a price tag. Obviously, material gifts are important, but don’t make them the main focus. College is a journey and an adventure, and a student doesn’t usually travel that difficult road alone. God, family, and friends all combine to make the journey successful. So sitting at the top of the list of college graduation gift ideas is a moment of prayer and giving thanks. Keep in mind, college is really only the beginning of a life-long journey. Commencement means to start. So, take a moment during that time of prayer or contemplation to be grateful for the love of Jesus Christ and of each other. Jesus was along for the academic journey, too. Be respectful of the hard work the student put in to earn a college degree. And be mindful of the hard work yet to come. Show approval of the student’s efforts and seek to gain God’s approval through the knowledge gained over the past few years. Also show the required gratitude to God, the student, family, and friends. Finally, be thankful for the many blessings that have been bestowed upon the student and his or her family and friends.

Love, respect, approval, gratitude, and thankfulness are not just simply great college graduation gift ideas. They are all principles found throughout the Bible. Perhaps of all the gifts love is the greatest. And showing God’s love for each other is the deepest form of celebration. Proverbs says to drink deep of love and enjoy each other’s company with love. Respect and edification is also one of the better ideas. A college graduate will want approval for their efforts. And there is no greater seal of approval than God’s. As seen in the Book of Judges, using the name of the Lord gives the message of approval credibility and authority. But this shouldn’t be done lightly. Gratitude should also be listed among the college graduation gift ideas. Give each other thanks for the effort and support, but also show appropriate gratitude to the Lord. With that all said, be thankful for the Lord’s blessings. The Bible says to give thanks to God who always triumphantly leads people through the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

“Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. And we beseech you (***) brethren, to know them which labour among ***, and are over *** in the Lord, and admonish ***; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort ***, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning *** Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify *** wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that calleth ***, who also will do it. Brethren, pray for us. Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. I charge *** the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. (1 Thessalonians 5: 12-28)

Now, appropriate material college graduation gift ideas are endless. They can be expensive or bought on a budget. Gifts can be practical and useful or novelty items that are good for nothing more than a few smiles and laughs. Generally speaking, most college graduates are going to be leaving the world of academics with very little money in their pockets. In fact, most students come out of college in debt because of student loans. Although the new graduate will have many concerns, for most the first order of business is setting up a new house or apartment. Therefore, household items are useful college graduation gift ideas. Consider purchasing towels, sheets, bedding sets, blankets and pillows. A microwave, crock pot, cookware set, dishes, tableware, and glasses are practical, too.

Some new graduates may already have jobs lined up before graduation day and may be relocating to a different city or state. Buying an airline ticket to the job destination is highly practical. Also, buying an airline to ticket to a favorite vacation destination could provide a welcome break before the graduate hits the job market. Purchasing a vehicle could be considered among the list of college graduation gift ideas. On the less expensive side of things, gifts of clothing are helpful. If the graduate has landed professional type job, a wardrobe upgrade may be in order. Take him or her shopping or purchase a gift card to a store that specializes in professional attire. A brief case, a fine writing instrument, business cards, or any number of other job related items would be appropriate. Cell phones, laptop computers, and other devices will be appreciated. A professional looking and engraved frame for the graduate’s diploma is a confidence and self-esteem booster. Christian items make great college graduation gift ideas, too. Bibles, artwork, inspirational literature, and Christian themed movies are all worth consideration. Find out if the graduate has a favorite Psalm or other Bible verse. Then have it engraved or printed and framed.