Is there someone you know who habitually struggles to accept gifts or compliments? Is this your response in certain situations?
At times, it can be difficult to simply receive something with gratitude, without calculating deservedness, feeling obliged to return the favour or, in some manner, repay the gift.
Yet, when sincerely given, with no strings attached, the value of a gift is the giver’s prerogative, based on their desire to acknowledge worth.
There’s a definite correlation between being a reluctant receiver and underestimating your value.
While revealed in the response to tangible gifts, the struggle can be similar when receiving intangible gifts, like the love and forgiveness of God.
When God created Earth and its creatures, He declared everything “good”.
When God created you and me, He excelled Himself.
Upon creating humans, God declared us “very good”.
The Psalmist describes how God saw you before you were even born, forming you in a wonderfully complex fashion in your mother’s womb. You have value, just by being alive.
Despite this, maybe you still have difficulty receiving God’s love.
Maybe you feel the need to earn His grace and blessing; you assume the gift of salvation and God’s ongoing interest in your life requires effort on your part.
The gospel message counters this mindset: “God saved you by his grace when you believed ... it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done.” (Rom 2:8-9).
Similarly, Jesus describes the gift of the Holy Spirit: “If you only knew the gift God has for you … you would ask me, and I would give you living water.” (John 4:10).
There is no requirement that you try harder, do better or pray more consistently to earn God’s acceptance or loving presence.
The everlasting life God offers is a gift already paid for on your behalf, received by faith.
~ Contributed by Pastor Lynette Kay of Ignite Life Church, on behalf of the Combined Churches of Deniliquin.
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