Erik Wolhowe

John 3:27-30

Wednesday, February 21

 27 John answered, "No one can have anything unless God gives it."  –John 3:27

This verse stands out to me because it reminds me that everything that I have - all my abilities, all my possessions, all my accomplishments - they all are a result of the gifts that God gave me at birth. Gifts that I did not ask for or deserve, but gifts that were freely given. I need to be reminded often that what I have is not of my own doing, but rather a result of the gifts God gave to me.

In verses 27 through 30, John learns that Jesus is preaching nearby and is drawing large crowds. John could have reacted to this by saying that he too is drawing large crowds and that he is very successful at preaching the message. John could have said this because it would all be true, for indeed John had worked hard practicing and honing his speaking talents such that multitudes of people were eager to gather and hear him preach. John had every reason to be proud of all he had accomplished. But instead, John immediately gives all the credit to God for all that had been done. What an excellent example for us.

Questions for reflection:

• What gift or talent in your life are you most proud of?
• Have you stopped to give God thanks for it today?

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for the gifts and talents that you have given me. Help me to fully develop and utilize all of them as you intended. Keep me focused on improving myself so that the gifts you bestowed on me will benefit not only me, but others as well. I thank you for your everlasting goodness to me. Amen