The Gift God Has Given

Give as freely as you have received!

Matthew 10:8

When I am out and about and see something I can afford that reminds me of someone I love, I purchase it right then because I may not pass that way again. It saves me sweet time in the long run, trying to find just the right thing.

I also like to have things to look forward to, don’t you? One of the reasons giving is fun is the joyful surprise on someone’s face when the person opens something unexpected. At home I have a small chest of drawers for storing gifts. This organization helps me always know where I have stored the earthly treasures until the appropriate holiday arrives. Sometimes I cannot wait until a birthday or Christmas.

As believers in Christ, we have been given the greatest Gift, Jesus Christ, God’s only Son. God gave His Son to us, and He will never take back this gift of salvation this side of heaven. No gift will ever compare to Him. I wonder who is more excited about all we receive in Him—God or us? I have to guess that it’s God because He knows far better than we do all that awaits us, and He goes to such lengths to ensure our best.

In Luke 12, Jesus tells us to be ready for His return. In the meantime, He urges us to live faithful lives through His strength and power, which He fully and generously gives us. He says in verse 48, “When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.” He is talking about all we have—our time, possessions, spiritual gifts, everything! We, in turn, must follow His example and give of ourselves. We begin our giving with giving ourselves right back to God. We can live faithfully and purposefully, keeping the Giver of all things as our relationship priority!

Let’s give as freely as we have received. Remember that no gift is too small in God’s eyes.