The NIV 365 Day Devotional

Give

Our time is precious to us. When our children’s teachers ask for help, we’re quick to send supplies rather than volunteer our time in the classroom. If a distant relative moves into a nursing home, it’s easier to send cards than to visit. We know we need to give to our church, but it’s much easier throwing money into the offering basket than devoting our time and energy to teaching church school.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 10:42, “If anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” Remember that no person has ever been honored for what he or she has received. Honor has always been a reward for what a person has given.

Matthew 10:8 neatly sums it up: “Freely you have received, freely give.” God never, ever wastes a hurt! In fact, he can take your hurts and use them to help others. You have the opportunity to share your experiences, victories, and hopes with others. Remember what you’ve learned about the Lord through your personal experiences with him.

Luke 8:16 points out that “no one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.” We’re the instruments he uses for delivering the good news.

Taken from the NIV Celebrate Recovery Study Bible.