“So I will very gladly spend for you everything I have and expend myself as well. If I love you more, will you love me less?” – 2 Corinthians 12:15
I can assure you, having raised 2 and still raising 3 children in our home, it can easily be said that we spoil our children. As I think back over the years though I ask myself why have I given and continue to give to my children? I think the answer comes down to love. Wait a minute. That then implies that love can be bought, and certainly everyone knows that it cannot. For the gifts will one day be abandoned and left to rust or decay. Some might say that love is an emotional bond between individuals that is not valued in possessions and gifts but rather in actions, or perhaps it’s in the words shared between two people.
Certainly, if someone does something nice for another or compliments them there is a feeling of worth associated to the kindness. I do nice things for people I don’t even know, and I’m sure you do as well. Does this imply that you love them or that you care for them? The scriptures tell us that even the evildoers will do good things, but will not be accepted into heaven (Matthew 7:22-23). Good works are just that good and kind and generous, but in and of themselves do not fully demonstrate the love of the Father.
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Just as a parent will give a child financial means, clothing, shelter, food, knowledge, wisdom and skills throughout their upbringing only to have the child walk away unappreciative and feeling entitled, so it is between us and God. Right where you sit at this very moment, look around you and take in all that has been provided you. Perhaps you are in your home and protected from the elements. If you’re reading this, chances are you have electricity a computer and an internet connection. You likely had a pillow under your head last night. You probably have clothes upon your back and food in your pantry. You may not be rich in possessions, but you are provided for because you have been given talents and opportunities to create an income. The Lord above gave you everything you have, not in that He purchased these things for you, but in that He created you and in doing so created your ability to think, work and sustain your life and through His word has taught you right from wrong.
Yet, each day we awake, get dressed and eat a breakfast; all the while taking for granted that God the Father provided these things for us. If you are wealthy and of substantial means it is not because of anything you have done. It is only because you have used the skills, knowledge and talents that God the Father gave to you. He has given us everything we have including the ultimate gift of eternal life. How many of His children recognize everything He has done for them, yet still turn their back and refuse to accept His love and grace. Billions, yes billions. If you take a look around you today, recognize everything He has given to you and realize that indeed you are truly blessed.
Prayer:
Loving Father,
You have given everything we need in life. You have sustained us, provided for us and nurtured us as any loving Father would do for His children. You have given us talents, wisdom, knowledge and strength. You have provided means by which we can make a living, and You have given us a path to salvation. Help us to be grateful, to recognize and acknowledge Your love for us, in every aspect of our life. You did not have to provide for us, but You have chosen to. Let us not fall into the trap of entitlement for You owe us nothing, but have given us everything. We are blessed indeed. In Your name we pray – Amen
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