THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Thursday, October 5, 2023

Lord, our parents didn’t spend time teaching us to be selfish and self-centered. It came naturally. We’re born with the attitude the world revolves around us. Normally, we outgrow this mindset, some sooner than others. Many never outgrow their “gimme, gimme, gimme” years. Their existence involves “taking” and little, if any, “giving.”

“Lead me in the right path, O Lord [or] my enemies will conquer [control] me” (Psalm 5:8)

“Selfishness” and “self-centeredness” are one of the same and desire to control the Christ follower. May these terms never be used in the same sentence with our name.

Lord, you set the example. You are an awesome God, a loving God, a giving God. In John 3:16, you declare your love for the people of this world  to the extent you gave your one and only Son to pay the atonement for our sins. Of course, you’re not telling us to sacrifice our sons and daughters but implying that we are to give more than we receive (Acts 20:35). We’re to learn to give as you give.

Even though this giving character trait goes against our human nature, Lord, we desire your attribute of “giving” implanted deep within our character. Otherwise, our self-centered ego will try to control our actions with the attitude of “Look at me. I’m super special. What’s in it for me?” That’s hardly the image of you, Lord.

Paul set the Corinthian believers straight how legalism has no part in true giving.

“Each one must give as he has decided in this heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Paul wasn’t talking necessarily about money, was he , Lord?  He emphasized giving of our time, encouragement, talents, of pouring our energy into those you send to us to bless. This glorifies you, Lord.

May our giving reflect the joy of you living inside us. Amen!