“For this is how God loved the world: He gave…” – John 3:16
READ
Luke 6:32-36
REFLECT
Has it been difficult to find a gift for anyone on your shopping list? It could be because that person does not have a collection, team, or hobby that makes it easy to add another item. Or, it may be difficult to buy for others because we don’t know them well enough. Another unfortunate reason we have trouble buying gifts is because of a past hurt others have caused in our lives. How do we find the ability to give to those who hurt us? This is really what Christmas is all about.
God gave His Son “while were still sinners.” (Romans 5:8) His gift cannot be earned, deserved, or returned. It can only be accepted. God gave to us long before we did anything that honored His Name. When we look at His gift it enables us to give to others no matter the cost. This is the gift we were meant to receive, and the greatest motivation to give to others.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)
RESPOND
1 – Do you tend to avoid anyone at the gym, at work, or among your family? Why is it difficult to be around them?
2 – How can God’s perfect gift give you the ability to love others?
3 – Do you think you will be rewarded by God after this life? On what basis?
4 – How does God’s perfect gift motivate you to live holy?
Faith Workout: Giving When It Hurts
