Willing To Receive

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17 (NIV)

Don’t you just love being on the receiving end? You know unwrapping presents or having someone treat you to lunch. Gotta just love it when we’re the one who gets the surprise delivery at work or a freebie when we walk into the store. Maybe just once in a while, we find ourselves with a hand full of treats simply because someone thought we were special. And that smile on our face tells it all – we absolutely love it.

Have you ever found yourself on the receiving end of a gift you didn’t like? Perhaps it was Mary who knitted you a purple scarf to match the red mittens she gave you last year. Even better, how about the blender you got from your husband on your birthday? Dare we mention the casserole that showed up at our doorstep from the friendly neighbor who definitely can’t cook. Regardless, we grinned and said thank you even though our hearts longed for something else.

Found myself there the other day – God handed me a gift, and it was one I really didn’t want. He had especially picked this out for me. He allowed it to happen, and believe it or not, He wouldn’t take any returns. God’s outstretched hand ensured me this one was handpicked.

Now we’d all rather have that sparkling diamond than a bottle of cleaner to make our windows sparkle. Yet God in His sovereignty often extends gifts to us that buff out the rough spots and enable us to shine as women of God who glorify His name. His gifts are intentional. His gifts stretch our faith and promote deep growth. And yes, His gifts promise the beauty of producing great fruit in our lives.

What gift are you unwrapping this week? Is it the gift of discouragement that will teach you how to lift your eyes above your circumstances? Is it the gift of suffering that will teach you the value of life and seizing every moment? Is it the gift of struggle and wrestling with doubts? Regardless, God has entrusted that gift into your hands – now what will you do with it? Make Him proud sweet friend – dazzle Him with your steadfast faith. Whisper thank you in the dark even though you long for something else.

“Father, thank You for the gifts that transform our lives to shine for You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life