Monday, November 26, 2007

Thanks and giving

When we have truly thankful hearts, giving becomes merely an expression of that inward contentment. Speaking a thank you is just one way of expressing thanks for all that you have received. Writing a thank you note or sending a small token of appreciation are additional ways we say thank you.

When we give to God our tithes and offerings we are not only recognizing his ultimate ownership of everything, but we are also expressing gratitude to God for the many blessings we receive each and every day. We cannot out give God, but we can tangibly show him how thankful we are by responding to him with generous hearts.

One of my favorite verses begins "For God so loved the world he gave..." We show our thanksgiving and love for God by returning just a portion of the blessings we have received.

One of the tell tale character traits of a Christian is that they are generous. They give not only in thankgsiving and worship to God, but they also recognize that God's blessings are not only for our own indulgence, but to bless others as well. We Christians are God's agents of blessing all around us. It shows up in how quickly we respond to needs, how much we tip, how available we are to be a friend. Our opportunities for giving are limitless.

Giving for a Christian is a mark of belonging to God. It is kind of our tattoo; we wear it as our identification with God. People can see it as we show God's love for them in practical expressions of giving and love.

How can you say "Thanks" to God today?

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