In rel8, we spent some time in Genesis 4- the story of Cain and Abel. Instead of dwelling on Cain's jealousy of Abel's offering to God, we need to deal with the uncomfortable reality that we, like Cain, often don't bring our best gifts of offering to God. Even though He has blessed each of us with so many gifts in our bountiful lives, we often take these gifts for granted as "our own" and fail to give the proper credit to Our Creator.
Taking it Deeper:
How has God gifted you? What do you feel you use to bring glory to God?
Do you bring your "first fruits" (your best) to God, or do you bring Him the leftovers?
How does this effect your relationship with God? Be real with yourself about this question...
A Challenge for the Week:
Make a point to use one of your gifts to help out your church family- no matter what that gift might be. Be just as creative as God was in creating you...
A Prayer for the Week:
Lord, invade me with Your Spirit this week. Allow me to recognize Your hand in my life, Your gifts in my heart. Keep me from taking the credit for things that You have inspired me to do. Help me to remember that bringing You my best is an amazing opportunity that I have each day. Thank you for marking me a Your own and loving me as only You are able. In Your holy name, amen.
