Thanks For Nothing by Jeff Beman

"Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:17-19 17

Have you heard people say things like: “I sent them a gift but they never even thanked me. How rude of them!” Situations like this tend to irritate us, certainly. And yes, thanking someone for taking the time, effort, and expense to give you something special would be the proper thing to do.

In this scripture, the Apostle Paul, is thanking some of his supporters for sending him some gifts. But he is cautious in his thanks, because in Paul’s culture, gifts sometimes came with expectations of receiving something in return.

Over the years my views on giving gifts have evolved quite a bit. When I was younger, I pretty much had expectations attached to things. Drive my sibling somewhere? Sure- but I expect gas money. Do your chores for you? Sure, but pay me. But I have learned to try and give freely. And once I have given something, it is no longer mine to control. The recipient can be grateful or not, thank me or not, and though I might notice the lack of thanks, I don’t want to stew about it.

In other words, when you give anything, do so freely with joy and love. Make it just like the gifts to Paul: “A fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.” Don’t attach expectations to it.

Father- Soften our hearts and fill us with love enough to learn to give freely and completely, and without reservation. In the name of Jesus Christ - AMEN