Are you a cheerless Christian?

July 31, 2025

Maria Blessings, God's gifts, Psalm 126, Thankfulness , , , , Leave a comment

The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Psalm 126:3 NIV

In a few days, my good friend will celebrate her wedding anniversary with her sweet husband. As I’ve been praying for her, I came across this beautiful verse in the Psalms. How appropriate it is for a couple’s reflections on their shared life or for someone enjoying their birthday.

Mike and I have been married almost 46 years and we can say with grateful hearts that the Lord has worked marvelously in our lives. And no, I’m not overlooking the painful months and years. But the good far outweighs the troubles!  

Spurgeon has reflected that often Christians go around gloomy, consumed with problems, oblivious to God’s goodness. That should not be!  If anyone is in Christ, then he has experienced a wonderful transformation of his status. For sure THAT qualifies as a great thing. Besides, what kind of calling card are we Christians if we talk about our woes all the time?  Or wear a cheerless countenance? 

For one, we all know that a thankful heart is good medicine. But more importantly, the Father delights in giving His kids good gifts. Learning graciously to receive them makes Him happy.  

So, recall some of God’s recent blessings and put a smile on your face! You never know who might ask you why you’re so happy, opening a door to the Gospel.

Which is better to give or to receive?

April 24, 2025

Maria Acts 20, Ephesians 3, Giving, Knowing Jesus , , Leave a comment

I pray….(that you) know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:16, 19 ESV

I just finished a book about how the blood covenant grounds or acts as the foundation for God’s love for us. As Paul wrote, we are not just to learn about Christ through studying His word, but we are meant to experience His love.

There’s a knowing facts and data about someone and a knowing that is gained through doing life with that someone. For instance, I know far more than just biographical facts about my husband, for I am the recipient of his love. Daily, he demonstrates how much he cherishes me.  He studies me to know how best to provide, to show his care, to anticipate my needs and desires. As a result, I have come to trust him. 

What if I were never to let Mike do anything for me? What if I rejected his help, thinking he’ll love me more if I don’t take from him, don’t count on him to help me?

For one, I’d be a fool. More importantly, he would feel hurt. He would rightly conclude that I don’t trust him.

It’s the same with Jesus. The way to really know Jesus is not through earning or meriting His love, but receiving it as ‘gift’.  The amazing news is that He is an eager ‘Giver’.

Yes, according to Luke’s account in Acts, Jesus did teach at one point, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35 ESV But, I think there is far more scriptural evidence to support the learned skill of receiving. A joyful recipient completes the joy of the Giver.