Ready:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” —James 1:17
Set:
In the younger sports world, there are parents who bring snacks for after the game. Every player gets snacks. A lot of young athletes are just as excited for the snack as they are competing in the game. At the high school level, it likely isn’t snacks that players get but perhaps practice gear, warmups or sweet new uniforms. Whether it is snacks or team swag, a good gift brings a smile to athletes’ faces.
This is much like how God works. He loves to give gifts and to bring good to His children. The Scripture from James shows His character, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” It is an encouraging reality to know God is like this. Jesus stated a similar thing to His disciples in Matthew 7:7-8, “Ask, and it will be given to you. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Every good gift, not some kinds of gifts, but every good gift that could ever be given and received, comes first from God. The gifts you receive from your parents or grandparents, or from a close friend, or from your team coaches are great but the concept of giving good gifts starts with God, who is generous and is the Giver of good gifts. He wants us to receive good and things that matter and have a lasting impact.
Notice the word “everyone” from Jesus’ words in Matthew. His gifts come to everyone who asks, seeks and knocks. These eternal gifts give what is needed to live a Christlike life. As part of His kingdom we need to be close to Him, doing good and bringing good to others. These are at the center of true eternal life.
Being the giver of good gifts is a distinction of how people in His kingdom act. In the very same way that God brings us good and perfect gifts we too are to be this same kind of generous person. As you look around your team, what are some good gifts you can bring? Where can you demonstrate generosity to them?
Go:
What is one special gift you received as an athlete?
Are you a generous person? Do you give the gifts of kindness, friendship and forgiveness?
Workout:
Overtime:
“Father in Heaven, thank You for being the kind of God who brings good and perfect gifts to me. I receive Your gifts with gratitude. Teach me to be like You, where I bring good gifts to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.”