We all do it.

A non-profit corporation CEO offers a favor to a potential donor whom he will ask later for a charitable contribution that will advance his agenda for the organization. He gave the gift to himself.

A busy husband reluctantly adheres to his wife’s request to pick up the kids from school only so he might find his reward from her that night. He gave the gift to himself.

A car salesman buys lunch for a prospective new car purchaser. He gave the gift to himself.

A politician serves the homeless for five minutes by filling their plates with food at a local soup kitchen while the television cameras capture the footage. The airing will garner him votes. He gave the gift to himself.

Jesus’ disciple Peter addressed his pattern of offering God’s design: “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10).

We either use our gifts to serve others, or we use them to serve ourselves. The condition of our hearts is the determining factor.

This week, examine your gifts and select one to graciously serve someone in need. You will grow in your intimacy with Him.

Episode 27: God’s Ins, Outs, Ups, and Downs of Resources, Part 1 from mitchkrusetv on Vimeo.

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