Two Questions

 

The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. As it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. (2 Corinthians 9:6-11 ESV).

 

Today I have come to the writing of the Morning Devotional with some interesting experiences of late. Yesterday (a Wednesday) as I was making my drive into the office I received a call from an unrecognized number. Since my hands free feature on the truck doesn’t allow for the importing of my contact list and it was from a local area code, I thought “I’d better answer.” Pressing the talk button I heard a strange voice mispronouncing my name very badly and thus revealing it was an automated sales call. Now, feeling a little mischievous I decided I’d engage the salesman in a conversation. Well, it was much more enjoyable for me than it was him I’m sure. He tried to get back to his script three different times while I asked how he was feeling, what the weather was like where he lived, and if he was looking forward to a pleasant Thanksgiving with family and friends!

 

Perhaps the reason I ended with that last question about Thanksgiving is my “window time thoughts” about gratitude as I drove. That ultimately led me to our reading today. You see, I began by asking myself the question: What do I need that I don’t have? Of course, my answer was quick and decisive… “No.” But, just as quickly I thought, “That’s the wrong question.” I don’t just have my needs met. I have an abundance in all things. I’m certainly not wealthy, but I am rich. The real question we ought to be asking ourselves in preparation for thanksgiving and a lifestyle of gratitude is: What do I have that I don’t need?

 

Now that’s a different perspective. Instead of thinking about getting more, I ought to think about how much I have. I’ll have a bit more to write tomorrow; however, today, would you ponder that latter question? Would you think of the God who is your Father and gives abundantly to His children?