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The key is in the Gift
'Giving a gift can open doors; it gives access to important people!' PROVERBS 18:16
We often talk about the way that God gives people 'gifts'. When we say this we're referring to certain talents and abilities that a person may have; for instance, you might be able make people laugh by the way you tell stories, but your sister might be a real brainbox.
Different people, different gifts. But this Proverb is actually talking about gifts in the touchy-feely sense of the word, in fact, it almost sounds like bribery! Yes, your giftedness will get you noticed, and may give you a head start on others but you need to combine your gifting with generosity. How do you feel when someone gives you a gift? You feel special, right?
You think, 'Hey, thanks, you noticed me.' Well, that's what this Proverb is getting at. Giving a gift to someone sends out the signal that you aren't only interested in yourself; you're a giver, not just a taker. Haven't you known people who had all the talent they'd ever need, but they never got the big break they deserved? Their talent made them stand out but their lack of generosity revealed their self-centredness. Who wants to give a big break to a person like that? Their talent might be able to push open the door, but their lack of concern for anyone but themselves slams it shut again. There's a reason they call Proverbs 'the wisdom book'!
written by Bob Gass
