11/21/11

Receiving Well


Do you ever have trouble receiving well? I like to remind people that while it is "more" blessed to give than to receive, that doesn't eliminate that there is a blessing TO receiving. 


When God prompts someone to give to us, we should accept it gratefully so as not to block THEIR blessing of cooperating with what God seeks to do in our lives. We are often the vessels He uses to distribute grace. A simple "thanks so much" keeps the conduit of blessing open. When we deny a gift or say, "You shouldn't have done that," it could actually be coming from a root of pride and independence, neither of which are a fruit of the Spirit.

We should not be embarrassed to be good receivers. Our very salvation is something we "receive."


1 comment:

  1. I actually learned this lesson from Erma Bombeck. My family always argued (still does) over who would provide what, pay for a meal, etc. Erma Bombeck was the graduation speaker for my graduating class from Meredith College in 1991. It was my job to represent my class and present her with a gift of appreciation from the class. I gave it to her and she said, "Thank you!" and added some other comments. I responded, "Oh, it's not just from me. It is from the entire class." She responded, "Thank YOU!" We did this little round and round thing a couple of times before I got it and said, "You are welcome." It was a little embarrassing when I realized what had taken place, but I was (and still am) grateful for the lesson. There are several lessons in there really. But, the biggest I took away is to just say "thank you" or "you're welcome" and move on! :)

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