*DISCLAIMER: Affiliate links in this post, see bottom of post for more details.

Are You a Giver or a Taker?

We used to live and work at a Bible Camp. The camp director often challenged the campers to move from being takers to being givers. He explained that it was a sign of maturity to focus on giving instead of getting.

“…It is more blessed to give than receive.” -Acts 20:35b

Times are tough right now.

People are hurting, grieving, accusing, and fighting. People are taking jabs at one another in light of the pain they are feeling. People are pointing fingers and striving to be heard above the roar. Some are spitting out venom, in hate. Some are even using fists to crush.

I’m afraid we are a sorry bunch as we walk around bruised, mocked, and wounded.

Yet, I have hope. I have hope that the Spirit of God who resides within us will lead the way through the gray.

We have the holy honor to give instead of take.

May we offer empathy as the hurting gather near.

As we pass the mashed potatoes, may we dish out compassion. As we fill up glasses, may we pour out refreshing words. As we look into the eyes of those around the table, may we focus on what we already have—not what we lack. As we partake of what’s been given, may we express thanksgiving for the sacrifice (of family, of employers, of military, of leaders).

As we gather around the table, may we remember that table spread all those years ago—the bread torn, the wine poured. The Body broken, the Blood spilled—that we might receive the very thing we lacked; salvation.

I’m afraid we have forgotten to be thankful for the One who was bruised, mocked and killed on our behalf. 

Jesus stood silently before the angry crowd. He heard their false accusations yet He forgave them still.

Jesus demonstrated great restraint in order to extend a Greater Love.

He is Hope. May we offer Him our life.

May we follow in His steps…

Read the rest of this post over on Kelly Balarie’s site, Purposeful Faith…

Special Thanksgiving Giveaway (because I am so thankful for YOU)!

*DISCLAIMER: I am an affiliate for Krafty Kash. If you purchase items through the links or images provided, I will receive a commission, at no additional cost to you.

You know I’m a big fan (and affiliate) of Krafty Kash’s jewelry and I think you will be too (if you aren’t already). One of you will receive this Mother’s necklace by entering the giveaway below this image. I have one too and love wearing it! We can be twins. 🙂

Krafty Kash Mother Necklace Giveaway

This holiday season the Exclusive Mother’s Sets are $40 off of retail value! They are one necklace with a “mother” pendant with a wire-wrapped bead and anchor charm, as well as, a bracelet featuring 4 initial charms, 4 birthstones, 4 wire-wrapped beads, and 5 charms. These make a special gift for mom (or put it on your Christmas list).

And, if that weren’t fun enough, follow me on IG Stories (@katie_m_reid) because I’ll be sharing a huge Black Friday sale code for Krafty’s shop early tomorrow as we are out shopping!

Shop Krafty Kash for meaningful gifts.

Happy Thanksgiving! May today be a special reminder of how much you are loved by our Good Father.