Seek the Giver not the Gifts

Photographer: markuso

Have you ever known anyone that is all about them? They have plenty of rules and boundaries for themselves, but your boundaries are somehow overlooked or tested. They have no problem asking for things from you, but somehow they never have the time to return the favor.


Our daughter is experiencing some tough times right now. She has not found her niche within her school. She has several friends, but she hasn't made a significant connection with anyone. Without trying to pass my own insecurities to her, I casually ask questions and encourage her to seek out certain girls. There are some that I want her to avoid completely, but instead of saying don't play with her, I have asked questions and tried to guide her in the direction that is best for her. 


There is one little girl that our daughter is drawn to. This "friend" has been mean on more than one occasion and is truly all about herself and no one else. Recently, as we were talking about the latest episode, the Holy Spirit reminded me of 2 Corinthians 6:14- Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? This scripture turned into an interesting breakfast conversation as we discussed farm animals being yoked together. My son loved being a bull while I was the pony yoked to him. They easily understood that he was much bigger and stronger than me and that we could not effectively pull a cart together. Although it was entertaining, both of my kids understood the importance of choosing good friends.


All of this got me thinking about my relationships with others. I fight my emotions and the desires of my heart daily as I try to look at others around me rather than focusing on myself. I am not perfect, but I am aware of my tendencies and I strive to do better everyday.


What about my relationship with God? Am I giving to Him as much as I am asking from Him? He has so many things that He wants to give and bless us with, but He will not bless us if the things are taking us away from Him. If we spend more time focused on His gifts than on spending time in relationship, we will find that the connection is damaged.

Look to the LORD and his strength; 
seek his face always.
1 Chronicles 16:11

We must spend as much (or more) time seeking His presence as we do seeking His presents.

Father God, thank you for your grace even when I don't deserve it. I confess that at times I seek your gifts more than I seek spending time with you. Please forgive me. I want to be more like Jesus. I want to improve our relationship and I want my heart and actions to show that I care more about you than about anything you could ever give me. Amen.