Words of praise, Creator God, from King David:
Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.
Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.
Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.
(1st Chronicles 29:11-13)
Father, you got my attention this week. I heard a Muslim philanthropist explain that his wealth was a trust from God, and he was accountable for its use…for his stewardship. Then, a challenge in my Bible study: list all of your stuff and commit those possessions to the Lord.
The home, cars, checking, savings, investments. The toys and creature comforts: the HDTV, iPod, Blackberry, my beloved laptop, even the recliner.
Lord Christ, I acknowledge - with gratitude - that it all belongs to you. I acknowledge - with discomfort - that I have lavished these “material blessings” upon myself with insufficient regard to others’ needs.
Holy Spirit, minimize my inclination for personal comfort. Maximize my concern for others. You have my attention; put those “others” in my path. Amen.
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