2 Corinthians 9:8 “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in ALL things at ALL times, having ALL that you need, you will abound in EVERY good work.” NIV

Our theme verse above reveals so much goodness about our Heavenly Father.  Here we get a glimpse of God’s desire to bless us in ALL ways so that we, in turn, can bless others through good works.  These 28 words portray a mighty and generous God.

Do you notice the repetitive use of the word, “all” in this verse?  “All” is a daring word indicating not one single exception and should be used cautiously and sparingly.  But, look at the Holy Spirit’s repetitive use of this strong word: “all things,” “all times,” “all that you need,” and “every good work.”  (“every” being a synonym of “all”)  Because these words are God-breathed from a God who cannot lie, this truly indicates it is without one single exception.  All His blessings are available and waiting for us to claim and pass on through good works.

A number of years ago, my husband and I hosted an ice cream party.  I prepared an amazing ice cream buffet (if I do say so myself) of flavors and toppings.   I carefully selected just the right varieties of ice creams, toppings, whipped creams, glazes, fruits, nuts, and, of course, cherries to adorn the top.   It gave me so much pleasure choosing all the unexpected treats for our guests.  My table was overflowing as the guests arrived.  I knew they would be blown away by the abundance of deliciousness.

After surveying the entire table, one of the guests picked up a bowl, dipped out one small scoop of vanilla, and turned to depart.  Stopping him mid-step, I questioned him about his choice of one small scoop of vanilla because I could not fathom him overlooking the other 64 items I had carefully selected for his enjoyment.  He kindly replied, “Thank you, but all I want is vanilla.”

I choked back the urge to say, “Did you not see the macadamia nut ice cream, or the homemade almond flavored whipped cream, or the warm blueberry drizzle, or the butter-brickle topping, or the chocolate chips, or the cherry for the top?”  Instead, by the grace of God, I simply replied, “Great!  Enjoy!”

I wonder if this is how our Heavenly Father feels as we circle His table overflowing with ALL His blessings and we choose only a small helping of one?  How often are we guilty of bypassing the goodness God lovingly provides us and delights in giving us?   Are we aware God has carefully selected all these blessing for us?  Do we take seriously the commission to bless others with what we receive from Him?

So, if God’s table is filled with gifts to help us abound in good works, what gifts are found there?  Well, for us to profess our faith to the unbeliever, we need boldness and truth.  They are on His table.  To raise godly children, we need wisdom, strength, and, oh so much patience.  They, too, are on His table.  To move beyond our past mistakes and sins, we need forgiveness.  It is on His table.   To enjoy a close and loving relationship with God, we need prayer and truth.  They are on His table.  These blessings and many more are waiting for us to take.  So, Sisters pick up the biggest bowl you can find, circle God’s table of blessings, and fill it up.  Then watch how God is glorified as you abound in every good work.

Father God, forgive us when we fail to partake in the blessings you have provided for us.  Help us to come to your table and fill up on all you offer.  And in turn, may we use them all to bless others.

Blessings,

Rita Cochrane

God’s table is filled with all we need to meet the needs of others.  Below are a few additional reminders of what is found on God’s table of blessings.

James 1:17