Who can out give God? What do we really own? Throughout my life, Christ has shown me that it is in giving that I am are truly blessed and prosper. Furthermore, that my life is a continual process of laying it all down (giving it away) and not claiming ownership to anything in this world. It is in knowing that my heart is in heaven with the treasures I have stored there based on the good works I have accomplished through Him which ushers His peace and gives me contentment.
How do we recognize His gifts? I believe that a seeker of truth must come to a reverent, holy fear of God. This fear will aid the seeker from distinguishing between their own desires and God’s “good and perfect gifts.”
James 1:13-18 (NLT) “13 And remember, no one who wants to do wrong should ever say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else either. 14 Temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires. 15 These evil desires lead to evil actions, and evil actions lead to death. 16 So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above, who created all heaven’s lights. Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows.”
One might be tempted to believe that latest Apple IPhone is a better gift than a single blade of grass. One is good and perfect, created by God; the other satisfies a short-term desire.
There are times that the world will distract me from worshiping my Lord with sinful thoughts and comfort seeking. I am reminded of Jesus parable of the rich young man who could not give up His worldly possessions and follow Christ when He was challenged by our Lord.
Matthew 19:16-22 (NLT) “16 Someone came to Jesus with this question: “Teacher, what good things must I do to have eternal life?” 17 “Why ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “Only God is good. But to answer your question, you can receive eternal life if you keep the commandments.” 18 “Which ones?” the man asked. And Jesus replied: “‘Do not murder. Do not commit adultery. Do not steal. Do not testify falsely. 19 Honor your father and mother. Love your neighbor as yourself.’ “20 “I’ve obeyed all these commandments,” the young man replied.” What else must I do?” 21 Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 22 But when the young man heard this, he went sadly away because he had many possessions.
Matthew 10:38-39 (NLT) 38 If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. 39 If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give it up for me, you will find it.”
This is a test we must all take. Ultimately, you will not be able to leave this world and enter into Christ’s kingdom without giving your life away. Your life is a gift from God. He wants you to give it away. He wants you to invest your life like the trustworthy, hard-working, kingdom-investors in our Lord’s “parable of the talents.” When I am called home to give an account of my contributions to His Kingdom while I was in this world, I pray that His grace will allow my testimony to stand with confidence. Finally, my greatest joy will be to hear from my Lord, “Matthew 25:21…. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’”
Taken from a devotion written March 7, 2006