As we enter the season of buying or making gifts to give to one another during the holidays I can’t help but think about the unconditional gifts that God gives to each of us and those he is storing to give to us when we ask and are ready to receive them. God asks for and does not expect anything in return except for our faith, gratitude, love and trust in him and that we attempt to learn and follow his word and pray. That may sound like a lot, but truly it is not in comparison to other places we put our energy.
When you think about it, our health, our homes, our jobs, our families, our friends and all of the beauty on this earth is a perfect gift from God. He has given us the gift of life and free will.
I believe that God wants us to give to one another as he gives to us. He may call us to give money and food to those in need, but he may also call us to give the precious gift of time, a reassuring comment, a loving hug, a forgiving word or to simply share a meal. Even though the tradition is to exchange gifts during the holidays, the truest form of giving is without want or expectation of anything in return.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 NLT - 6 Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.”[a] 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.
As you shop for the perfect gift for your loved ones, take a few minutes to give thanks for the blessed and generous gifts you have received from our Father and then give as he has given to you, unconditionally and with a cheerful heart!
Here are some beautiful quotes on this subject:
“Love the giver, not the gift” Brigham Young
“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver” Maya Angelou
May God bless you today and everyday with the wonders of his love and all the perfect gifts he has in store for you. Happy Holidays!
You give us all this gift of your thoughts combined with God's Word. Here are my 10 things I am grateful for:
ReplyDeleteGod the Father, His Son, His Spirit that lives in me, His Word...the Bible.
My dear loving husband Sam.
My Besty
White butterflies
My family and roots
My excellent health because of walks with my Besty
The 24 years of employment with the company I work for.
My home and adorable neighbors, and the not so adorable ones.
This blog and the courageous person who writes it.
This beautiful world we live in.