“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17
Our family has a Christmas morning tradition that allows the kids to open the contents of their stockings as soon as they wake up, even if my husband and I aren’t out of bed. Their excitement is infectious, and it doesn’t take long for us to get up and join in the festivities.
A parent’s desire to give generously to their kids is a picture of the lavish gifts God gives to us, His children. Not only did God send Jesus to earth as a gift of salvation to all that believe, He pours out his Holy Spirit on those who love Jesus. And He has give each of us gifts that enable us to love and serve Him, to His delight!
Our bank account may determine how much or how little we can give our kids, but God’s good and perfect gifts aren’t limited. Daily, we have the opportunity to receive the best He has to offer. In repentance and humility, the full measure of the Spirit can work within us to help us use our gifts to serve others and glorify God.
How sad it would be that after all of our careful planning our children opened their gifts only to toss them aside and not give them a second thought. How tragic it is when Christians go through their lives without giving a second thought to the incredible gifts God has given to them.
Heavenly Father, every good and perfect gift comes from you! Thank you for giving us your Holy Spirit and the spiritual gifts you have chosen for us. Help us to use these gifts in humility, as we serve others for your glory. Amen.
Take Action
If you haven’t been paying attention to the Holy Spirit, or the gifts God has given you, repent. Ask God to renew your excitement (like a child on Christmas morning) for these gifts that the Father has lavished on you. Humbly ask Him how you can use these gifts to glorify Him today.
