in the word | week of Nov. 30, 2009

Posted by acgosser on November 30, 2009

DAY 1: II Corinthians 9:15
The Message translation reads, “Thank God for this gift, His gift. No language can praise it enough!” Maybe we cannot praise him enough in our language, but we can praise him a LOT! On a sheet of paper, write the letters of the alphabet down the left side. On each line write something God has given you that starts with that letter. Write “God’s Gifts” at the top of the column. As you write your list, thank God for each of his gifts. (Save your list throughout this week – we’ll be adding to it!)

DAY 2: James 1:17
On your list begin a new column entitled “Why.” Next to each item write a phrase that describes why God gave you each gift. For example, for “Music” you might write, “to give me pleasure and a means to praise him.” As you write your list, thank God for giving you his precious gifts.

DAY 3: John 4:10
On your list start a new column (or add another sheet) entitled “Attributes.” For each item on the list, write down whether the gift is personal and/or practical. The item is personal if it fits your unique needs. Remember, God knew you needed a savior, and he gave himself personally for you. The gift is practical if it is something you can use – just like life in Christ gives you abundant life. Now that’s something you can use!

DAY 4: Matthew 7:9-11
On your list in the “attributes” column, write down whether the gift is pleasing and/or permanent. Most gifts will, in time, become dust collectors and even fade. A pleasing gift is a gift that satisfies and sustains. A permanent gift has lasting value. It does not break, and our desire for it never diminishes. A permanent gift could be rejected, but it is never rescinded.

DAY 5: John 3:16
When God gave his one and only son, he gave an unconditional gift. He knew Jesus would make the ultimate sacrifice to purchase your salvation. The gift of eternal life was bought for you and given at a great cost. On your list in the “Attributes” column, write down whether the gift was purchased. Was there a cost associated with the gift? Thank God especially for each gift that he purchased for you!

DAY 6: Reread each of this week’s scriptures.
“Thank God for this gift, His gift. No language can praise it enough!” Give praise to God for his many gifts to you. As you plan your gift giving this Christmas, consider the attributes of your gifts. Are they personal, practical, pleasing, permanent, and purchased? Let God’s gift serve as an example to you.