Daily Journal: 29 September

The Perfect Gift

I want to be blessed in what I do. I want my heart to be full. I want my actions to be based on beliefs that are worthwhile and my values to be based on what is unshakable.

James 1:25 (NIV)

But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it – not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it – they will be blessed in what they do.

Imagine if you’re given a gift. You express thanks for receiving it but two days later you’ve forgotten all about it. What good is the gift, and even the exchange?

Imagine if you give a gift and a few weeks later you revisit the friend you gave it to and you see your gift discarded, still lying where it was opened, forgotten.

To look intently at something is more than to acknowledge it or pass it by. It’s to absorb it and take it in. In terms of a gift, it is being grateful for it and to understand the heart from which it was given; to treasure it.

The perfect law is in Jesus fulfilling the written law. It is a law that lacks nothing, not wanting for anything. It is a perfect gift by which we can live our lives with moral and spiritual contentment.

Psalm 19:7-9 (NCV)

The teachings of the Lord are perfect; they give new strength. The rules of the Lord can be trusted; they make plain people wise. The orders of the Lord are right; they make people happy. The commands of the Lord are pure; they light up the way. Respect for the Lord is good; it will last forever. The judgments of the Lord are true; they are completely right.

When we look intently at the gift that Jesus has given us, it brings us everything we need to live this life as He has created and orchestrated. We are strengthened in Him. Our daily provisions come from Him. Our destiny is fulfilled in Him. That is the perfect gift.

Job 23:11-12 (NCV)

My feet have closely followed his steps; I have stayed in his way; I did not turn aside. I have never left the commands he has spoken; I have treasured his words more than my own.

Have you ever given a gift that you had really considered when choosing it, only to see it be easily discarded? How did that make you feel?

Heavenly Father, help us to remember the care with which you chose the perfect gift for us in Jesus, and that you have given us the gift of knowing how to live this life you've given us through Your Word. Help us to take hold of it with both hands and treat it well.