2 Peter 1:3–4 3 His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, 4 by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
Most Christmas gifts are given anticipating delight and appreciation.
Many parents can relate to a time when a present they purchased or made for their child will be unwrapped. They think what will be revealed is the child’s most desired present of the day. What happens is that the present is enthusiastically unwrapped and received with short-lived joyfulness. To the parents’ disappointment, their child quickly sets this ideal gift aside in anticipation of the next mystery present hidden behind an eye-catching bow, ribbon, and sparkling paper.
However, encouragement returns to the heart of parents when later in the day, their child begins to admire and take an interest in that special gift. The parent’s joy is wonderfully topped off when their child comes to them to express thankfulness for the gift. The child’s thoughtful appreciation warms their hearts.
Jesus is the most precious gift ever given. God knows our need for a Savior and enabling grace. As we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord, Jesus Christ, we begin to see more of the significance of what we are given in Christ. The precious promises in His word encourage our hearts and focus our growth. More and more of our sins are sloughed off while greater degrees of effectiveness and fruitfulness develop. This is what 2 Peter chapter 1 teaches us.
We need to work through the distractions of life, regaining our focus on the gift of God’s grace we have in Jesus. Jesus is the gift of God, who brings us deliverance and fruitfulness. May our hearts be thankful to our heavenly Father this Christmas!
