“What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?” (I Corinthians 4:7 NLT)
We would all do well to take a few minutes to think about and answer this intriguing question presented by the Apostle Paul. Can you think of anything you have that you did not receive from God? Can you think of all the wonderful things you have received from God? According to the Bible our salvation is a gift from God. The faith it takes to receive salvation is also a gift from God. As Paul has implied, as we do a gift inventory we will find that God has given us many kinds of gifts.
Our DNA proves that God has given us a physical identity that is unique and different from every other person living on the planet. Physically, there is not now, there never has been, and there never will be any one exactly like you. God has also given us intellectual gifts that equip us to live smarter, not harder.
When we receive the gift of faith that saves us, God also gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit. When we receive the Holy Spirit God adds a cluster of spiritual gifts that enable us to minister in many ways. For example, He gives gifts of mercy which enable us to love those who are hurting with great compassion. He gives the gifts of knowledge, wisdom, and teaching that make it possible for us to teach the Word of God. He gives many gifts that equip us to lead others to Christ.
Today, make a gift inventory and thank God for all the gifts He has given you!
Dick Woodward, 07 February 2012
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