Hebrews 12:28-29 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire.” New International Version (NIV)
Growing up in Germany I learned new Christmas traditions. In Texas, Alaska, Florida, Missouri and Illinois we had opened presents on December 25. Then my first year in Germany we left shoes outside on December 5 and we received gifts from St. Nicholas. Like most children I was glad to receive gifts on any day for any new reason!
Our God loves to give good gifts. The greatest gift he gives his children is totally unexpected. He gives us his kingdom. Hebrews repeats Jesus’ promise in Luke 12:32-34, “Do not be afraid little flock. Your Father has been pleased to give you a kingdom.”
This reminds me of the old story about a golf professional playing golf in Saudi Arabia with a sultan. Afterward the sultan asked if he might give the golfer a gift. He declined but when pressed said, “I guess you can give me a golf club.” Returning home he wondered what a golf club from a king might be: gold? Or encrusted with diamonds? Soon he received a letter in the mail with the keys to a whole golf club resort.
One word of caution: our gracious and benevolent king is not to be taken for granted and may not be manipulated. In awe of the good gift of his sovereign rule or kingdom over our lives, we worship him with reverence and awe as a consuming Fire. We are not just customers purchasing a bit of religion where we like it best. We are the fuel. As Amy Carmichael prayed, “Make me your fuel, flame of God.” May God give us the gift of being consumed with him today!
Pray with me:
Father, you are such a good giver. Thank you for the gift of life in your kingdom. Reign without rival in our hearts, homes and churches today we pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
This year our Every Day with Jesus readings will follow The Bible Project Read Scripture Plan. Copies of this reading plan are available at Tallowood Baptist Church, or download the app at readscripture.org. Read through the Bible with us in 2019!
Joyfully,
Duane
Copyright 2019. All Rights Reserved.
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