Sarah
is much better at entertaining herself than James. When she thinks to play with
a particular toy, then sometimes James decides that’s the toy he wants to use,
too! Funny how that works, no matter how many other toys are available!
As
adults, we sometimes don’t appreciate and use the advantages and blessings we
have. In fact, can you think of someone who has received numerous blessings and
lots of advantages but doesn’t recognize, appreciate or use them? Paul could.
Paul
wrote the book of Romans to primarily Gentile believers in Rome. God had
appointed him to be an apostle to the Gentiles (Romans 15:16). Yet, in the
following passage Paul grieves over the Jews’ lack of belief, despite all their
advantages.
Romans
9:1-5 I speak the truth in Christ—I am not lying, my conscience
confirms it through the Holy Spirit— 2 I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my
heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself
were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my people, those of my own
race, 4 the people of Israel. Theirs is
the adoption to sonship; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving
of the law, the temple worship and the promises. 5 Theirs
are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of the Messiah,
who is God over all, forever praised! Amen.
The
Jews had so many advantages, but didn’t recognize, appreciate or respond
appropriately.
What
advantages has God given to you and me? How are (or will) you and I
appropriately use them for God’s purposes in our own lives and the lives of
those around us?
Let’s
take time to recognize the advantages He has provided and give Him thanks!
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