All these (gifts) are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.

1 Corinthians 12:11

What did God give you for Christmas this year? Did he give you something you asked for? Did he give you something you didn’t like? Did he give you something you can really use? Did he give you nothing at all? God is a gift-giver. The Spirit gives you just what he determines is good for you. Are you planning on keeping what he gives you or are you going to return it? Here are some common responses we might give: Thanks, but I don’t need it. Thanks, but I don’t know how to use it. Or thanks for the gifts you gave to me. Jesus is the gift of Christmas. He is the gift of God’s loving forgiveness and many other gifts. And the Spirit gives us the faith to receive them and the power and joy of sharing them with others.

Ken Holdorf
Frisco, TX

Thank you, Lord, for all that you have given to me in Jesus. Amen.

Reflect: Make a list of God’s gifts to you and mark it with this note: No need to return it.

Read: Ephesians 2:8-10 and Ephesians 3:14-21