by Wayne Robbins 12/22/24
The Search for the Perfect Gift
This time of year, many of us are busy searching for the perfect gift to show our love and appreciation for others. Yet, as we navigate the stress of gift-giving, let’s pause to recognize a profound truth: the perfect gift has already been given. James 1:17 (NKJV) reminds us, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” Today, let’s reflect on this perfect gift of salvation through Jesus Christ and the accompanying blessings from our Heavenly Father.
God’s Gift of Perfect Peace
Jesus promised His followers a peace unlike any the world can provide. In John 14:27 (NKJV), He said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” This peace is not fragile or dependent on circumstances but is a steady assurance rooted in God’s promises.
Consider the brave actions of medics in the midst of war, focused on their mission despite chaos around them. As Christians, our mission is to serve Christ with a similar resolve, unshaken by the world’s tribulations. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 10:28 (NKJV), “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.”
This spiritual peace surpasses all understanding, as Paul wrote in Philippians 4:7 (NKJV): “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” While the world offers temporary peace, only God’s peace is everlasting and unshakable.
God’s Gift of True Joy
God’s gifts also include joy, a deep and abiding sense of happiness that flows from our relationship with Him. Jesus said in John 15:11 (NKJV), “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” This joy is closely tied to love: God’s love for us, our love for Him, and our love for others. As Jesus commanded, “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12 NKJV).
Unlike the fleeting happiness the world offers through possessions or achievements, God’s joy remains steadfast even in difficult circumstances. Paul exemplified this when he wrote from prison, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4 NKJV). This joy is part of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22 NKJV) and is a gift that fills our lives as we trust in God and serve others. Romans 15:13 (NKJV) beautifully captures this: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
God’s Gift of Sacrificial Love
The ultimate gift from above is God’s sacrificial love, demonstrated through Jesus’ life and death. Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:13 NKJV). This selfless love is the foundation of our salvation.
Jesus’ sacrifice in the Garden of Gethsemane shows the depth of His love. He prayed, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will” (Matthew 26:39 NKJV). Luke 22:44 (NKJV) adds, “And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.” Though He could have called for twelve legions of angels (Matthew 26:53 NKJV), He willingly endured the cross for our sake.
It is through this sacrificial love that we have hope for eternal life. This love transforms us and compels us to follow Jesus’ example by loving others selflessly and unconditionally.
Embracing God’s Perfect Gifts
As we reflect on the perfect gifts from above—peace, joy, and sacrificial love—let us embrace them fully in our lives. These gifts are not only blessings for us but also tools to share God’s love with others. Let us rejoice in the peace that comes from salvation, live with the joy of knowing God’s love, and follow Jesus’ example of sacrificial love.
Remember that the greatest gift has already been given. Let us share this Good News and live in gratitude for the perfect gifts from our Heavenly Father. As Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NKJV).
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