Words to Grow On

Archive Devotions

August 30, 2004

"A Giving Friend"

 by

Gladys DeMichael

"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him."

2 Corinthians 2:14 (NIV)

Giving is an important and satisfying part of women's friendships. We receive great delight in sharing. Our homes are filled with memory gifts. A story accompanies many of the things that grace the walls, tables and shelves. Seeing them nudges us to offer a prayer for the giver. These gifts represent years of growing special relationships and friendships. Nature has a way of bringing us back to the bottom line of the value of our giving, however. The damaging effects of floods, earthquakes, hurricanes or fires may leave us with nothing to hold in our hands. The tangible is gone.

We preach and teach from a heart of deep belief about the Greatest Gift. We also know that we are the gift the Master uses to draw others to Himself. Gail McDonald poses a question to women in ministry. It is worth contemplating as we evaluate our role as a giving friend. She writes, "Do you drive your friends to God or to you? Are your friends dependent on you or are they drawn to God?" God helps us to keep the focus accurate as we delight in giving. May He use us as a lovely perfume drawing others to Himself.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, you are the giver of every good and perfect gift. By your Holy Spirit, help me to discern always what is best for my friends. I want to be a giving friend, not only that which

is tangible, but most importantly, You who are eternal.  

Amen

Editors Note:

The following devotional was written for "heart preparation" for the women attending a "Journey in Grace" Conference in 1998.