The Gift Giver

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”  (Romans 8:28, NASB95)

Many people are born with natural talent while others try to develop talents.  When my children were little I looked for what they enjoyed and were good at doing so I could point them in that direction.  It has been interesting to see God reveal the true loves and gifts He has given them.  He was preparing them for the way they should go.

I used to say, “I have no gifts.”  I am not a great artist or painter or writer.  I don't sing or dance (although I sure tried).  Raising four children with my husband often away, I didn't take time to develop outside hobbies.  I thought when the children left home I would have a huge empty space of time.  That is not the case.  God uses our past and present circumstances along with people in our lives.  Even our weaknesses and our struggles can become part of our gifts.

The more time I spend in unbroken communion in God’s love, the more things I find myself enjoying.  God is the Creator.  He is creative.  When we ease into the things He begins to reveal in us, we start to enjoy the gifts we have been given.  We not only experience Him, but learn something about Him in the process.  It is Him expressing Himself through us.

One of my friends gives away her flowers and bakes for people.  Another one is a prayer warrior, never hesitating to give a smile and encourage.  A new friend is deciding how to pass on her photography and writing gifts.  I have a friend who writes for a local paper and does prison ministry.  I just reconnected with a couple of friends.  One, a single in her 50's, delights in three young sons she has adopted.  The other one, really struggling in her health, says she is doing well because God has a plan for her.  Writer friends I know pass on their God-given talent, love and wisdom.

Sometimes we may feel like we are in a barren land.  Stripped of all we have done in the past. Feeling useless. Without purpose.  This is the furthest thing from the truth.  This is a time to be alone with God.  He wants to do a mighty work.  His first concern is your relationship with Him.  I have been in that situation several times.  But afterward, I came away with a deeper, fuller relationship with God than I had known before.

Be patient.  Enjoy God.  Worship.  Rest.  Wait.  You'll be amazed.  These are gifts in themselves.  God is the Gift Giver.  He is the Gift!

God, You have given us such an abundant life.  May we seek You in the things and people we enjoy.  Lord, if we are not enjoying life in You right now, will You meet us there also?  Teach us all to enjoy You more.