1st Corinthians 12:7 NLT
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
1st Peter 4:10 NIV
At this time of year, we often spend lots of time, energy and resources trying to find just the right gift for our loved ones. It's a great delight for some and a study in frustration for others. Delight has to do with our perspective of the holiday and our love for others; frustration has much to do with how we perceive ourselves as gift finders and probably even more to do with how we think we'll be perceived by those to whom we give gifts.
At this time of year, we often spend lots of time, energy and resources trying to find just the right gift for our loved ones. It's a great delight for some and a study in frustration for others. Delight has to do with our perspective of the holiday and our love for others; frustration has much to do with how we perceive ourselves as gift finders and probably even more to do with how we think we'll be perceived by those to whom we give gifts.
Step away from all of that for a moment, and let's focus on the best gifts - those we have received from God. The first and best is Jesus Christ, our salvation. Following that is each other - Romans 12:5 tells us ...so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. So, you're a gift to me and vice versa. Rounding it off are the gifts we've been given to share in serving and helping each other.
Paul tells us in Romans 12, In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
Oh, that we would be the bearer of gifts that keep on giving what God intended to give!
Prayer:
Father,
When Your people are in need, give us eyes to see and hearts that will be ready to help them. Let us always be eager to practice hospitality. Help us to bless those who persecute us. Lord, teach us to be happy with those who are happy, and to weep with those who weep. Help us to live in harmony with each other, and to do all that we can to live in peace with everyone. And to use the gifts You have given us to help and serve others. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen
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