Come to me with empty hands and an open heart,
ready to receive abundant blessings. (1)
.
I have a hard time receiving gifts because either my pride or my expectations are too high.
I do not believe I am alone.
A friend wanted to say thank you to me earlier this week with a simple gift.
In gratefulness, I should have accepted it and say, “Thank you,” but I did not. My pride was a hinderance.
In exasperation he told me to at least take it and give it away to someone in need. It was only then when I accepted the gift.
He wanted to say thank you and I frustrated him with my pride.
Shame on me!
I wonder how often I have done this to God?
We expect God to bless us in specific ways. When He does not come bearing the gifts we expect, we act like He is a burden to us.
God has a specific gift for us.
The gift is Himself!
Unfortunately, we frequently reject the gift of Himself because we want a specific blessing rather than Him.
Jesus taught,
“Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” (2)
I wonder how many times has God come to me with a gift and I have rejected Him?
Sometimes, I am amazed God keeps blessing me.
+ + +
-
Young, Sarah (2004-10-12). Jesus Calling: Seeking Peace in His Presence (p. 123). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.
-
Matthew 6:8
Bread Crumbs - Devotions for Life 