The last few years have been rough. A long-term illness that almost killed me wasn’t how I expected to spend high school. But over time, I saw that God was using it for my good — to grow and shape me into the Christian he wanted me to be. I came to view my illness as a gift.

However, as I began to heal, God placed new gifts in my life. While I thanked God for all he did in me through my illness, I wasn’t ready for any more gifts-in-disguise. I was afraid that the new gifts God placed in my life might come back to bite me.

Here’s the thing — I needed to remember that God is good. And not just good, but he’s my loving Father. I need to trust that his way is absolutely perfect and for my good. Yes, there’s probably going to be some more oddly-packaged gifts in my life. But I don’t have to fear, because I’m loved by the giver. And you know what? There’s also probably going to be some pretty-packaged gifts too.

Our Father loves us (he is love) and gifts is a love language — so he is pretty good at giving them. 1 John 4:18 says, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” Therefore, we don’t need to stress over any gifts He provides, but embrace them.

Lord, thank you for your love for me. Thank you that I can trust you, and help me to do so — especially concerning my future and your plans for me. Thank you that you will never betray my trust. Amen.

Go Deeper — Tell God what you’re afraid of concerning future gifts. Every little part. And then tell him all the gifts you want. Just bring it all to him and let him decide what gifts are best.



Tags: Trust & Obey Matthew 7
Photo Credit: Bruno Nascimento