January 28: Open Hands

Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Try this object lesson with a child. Have him hold out both hands, palms up, and put a nickel in each palm. Tell him to close his fists tight and keep them closed no matter what you say. Now tell him you're very poor and need some money. Ask if you can have his two coins. No-he's holding them tightly. Then tell him you're very rich and would like to give him two quarters to replace his two nickels. Ask if you can replace his nickels with quarters. No-he's still holding tight.

The illustration shows us what we sometimes fail to recognize: a closed hand misses two blessings in life. A closed hand cannot enjoy the blessing of giving to others who are in need, nor can a closed hand receive blessings God may want to bestow. He gives to us not only to meet our needs but also to teach us to give as Christ gave-fully, generously, and unconditionally.

Prayerfully hold out booth open hand sin front of you and present them to the Lord for His pleasure-to give or receive.

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Our Heavenly Father never takes anything from His children unless He means to give them something better. - George Müller