If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! – Matthew 7:11 NKJV
Appreciation of gifts
It’s interesting that when a toddler receives a gift, a new toy, no matter how expensive it is, they can be more captivated by the packaging than by the toy itself. Clearly, a gift only becomes precious when the person receiving it knows its value.
God’s good gifts
Today’s scripture shows that despite our imperfection as humans, we understand the concept of giving good gifts to our children.
However, this can never be compared with the ones that our Heavenly Father can and has given to us His children; those who are led by His Spirit (Romans 8:14 & 16).
Firstly, we have the gift of His Holy Spirit; who helps us to do God’s will and to please Him (Acts 2:38; Philippians 2:13). Secondly, God’s gift of righteousness obtained through the precious blood of His Son, Jesus (Romans 5:9 & 17). This gift gives us direct access to God at any time (Hebrews 4:16).
It is usually best to give good gifts to our children when they are older, as they tend to appreciate it more. This includes telling them about God’s good gifts to us, His children.
What next?
As parents, let’s be intentional about our gifts to our children. These should not always be material things, we must think about the spiritual too; as they are more secure (Matthew 6:19-20).
Encouraging our children’s walk with God, by teaching them how to pray and study their bible, will certainly be an invaluable gift that they’ll grow to greatly appreciate.
Prayer Points
1. Thank you Heavenly Father for the good gifts you have given us including your Holy Spirit and the gift of righteousness
2. Holy Spirit, please teach us how to give good gifts to our children, like helping them to build a solid relationship with you
3. Holy Spirit, please help us and our children grow in the ministry of the word and prayer (Acts 6:4)