"You shall have no other gods before me." Exodus 20:3 (NKJV)
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The Gift or the Giver?
"You shall have no other gods before me." Exodus 20:3
(NKJV)
My friend loves his children so
much you can almost see it bubble from his pores. For many years, that
same love was reciprocated. I remember him proudly boasting that when
he arrived home from work each day his children nearly tackled him at
the door, covering him with hugs and kisses. What a wonderful feeling
to receive someone's love that is so openly exuberant.
One day, he wanted to surprise his children with a gift to express his
heartfelt devotion to their love. Not just any gift, it had to be a
special one. They were so surprised the day he brought home a big
screen television and he thoroughly enjoyed their excitement.
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Soon afterwards, he recognized a change in their behavior. They no
longer greeted him at the door but instead, were perched in front of
the television. When he called out to let them know he was home, the
only response he ever received was a muffled "Hi Dad". He also began
noticing that chores and homework were being neglected. He quickly grew
angry and regretted his decision.
The object of
his children's love had become the gift rather than the giver. When he
could tolerate it no more he marched into the room, stood in front of
the television and demanded his children's attention. Rules were then
set and their relationship changed.
Sadly, the
same is often true in a Christian's personal relationship with God. We
become so distracted and involved with gifts that we fail to recognize
and honor the giver. Do you hurry to greet your heavenly Father with
gratitude and love? Or like many Christians today, do you fail to pause
each morning to thank Him for life and rush through your day without
even a thought to honor Him?
Like my friend,
God is angered when we revere His gifts above Him. Wherever we spend
our time and devotion will ultimately become our god. It's easy to be
distracted by the bustle of life and overlook everything He has done
for us. But we must remember that He is the giver of life and worthy of
our praise and devotion. Please join me in making the conscious
decision to turn our eyes back on the Father and give Him the first
fruits of thanksgiving each morning and praise for every gift. Then, we
will once again experience the bubbling love of a Father that adores
His children.
Teresa Altman, http://www.faithwriters.com/websites/my_website.php?id=28787
, an engineer for 25 years, answered God's call to write in 2007. A
mother of two and grandmother of six, she lives in Northwest Tennessee.
@2007 by Teresa Altman
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS-MAKE A WEBSITE
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2007 by "Wbisbill" · All Rights
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