Psalm 40:4 Blessed is the (woman) who makes the LORD (her) trust
Christmas shopping. Believe it or not I've already started it. Holiday procurement was far simpler when I was an elementary student. The PTA hosted a store. My mom gave me money. My retail excursion was complete in a matter of minutes.
My kids have taken part in these as well. One of Scott's prized possessions is his hulkish figurine holding up the words, "Incredible Dad". I still love the plastic "diamond" ring Hannah (15) gave me one Christmas. She was so distressed when her younger sister wore it to school and lost it, she bought me an identical one the next year. Its' stone may not have been real but the love it was wrapped in was.
Shopping for treasures in the cafeteria was a pleasure shared by all my siblings as well. I remember the Christmas a hokie present was opened by one sibling. This present found a place of "honor" inside the bedroom closet behind closed doors.
I was reflecting today on the gifts of writing and speaking God chose to give me. For so long I rejected the gift. I kept trying to return it to the cafeteria store and believe me the PTA gives NO refunds. I also tried to shelve it. I hoped if I ignored it, it would simply go away.
I witnessed the look on the other sibling's face when the gift was shoved in the closet. Hurt. Disappointed. Rejected. I wonder if that's how God feels when I take the gifts He's showered on me and try to downplay or cover them.
God desires for me to use my gifts with confidence. He wants me to open the closet, grab the gift and proudly display it on the coffee table. Not for my glory. For His.
Jesus, I'm sorry I tried to reject Your present. I never meant to hide it either. Help me have the courage to unshelve Your gifts permanently. When I do, this adventure of faith goes from shelf to life.
What gifts, talents and abilities do you need to take out of storage?
