Take The Lid Off 7-Day Reading PlanSample

It seems that every new generation thinks they’ve invented the world. Certainly, modern people have come up with new technology and advances in every field of economics, medicine, agriculture, and engineering, but they didn’t start from scratch. Whether they realize it or not—and whether they appreciate it or not—they stand on the shoulders of the creative, wise risk-takers and caregivers who came before them. When I see God use me to touch people’s lives, I’m amazed that He would let me participate in His redeeming work. Also, I’m very grateful to my parents, their parents, and generations who have shaped who I am. I’m a product of their love, faithfulness, and courage.

Some of us, however, look at our family legacy and cringe. We look back on generations of shame, pain, estrangement, and heartache. In God’s wisdom and grace, He turns even the worst legacy into wonderful lessons. We can build a redeemed legacy on the lessons we learn from life’s greatest difficulties. No matter what your heritage may be, God wants to use it for good. Continuing a great tradition begins with gratitude. Changing a painful past into a glorious future begins with insight about God’s grace and purposes. No matter where we’ve come from, God has a bright future for us. Gratitude is the result of experiencing generosity, and it launches new waves of generous giving. Thankfulness and generosity are inextricable. 

If you really want to take the lid off, give to those who can’t give back. Give to the poor, the struggling families, the weak, the hungry, the thirsty, the homeless, the sick, and the prisoners. Jesus said that those who give to “the least of these” are actually loving and serving Him (Matt. 25:40). 

To give yourself away, you have to have something worth giving to others. First, open your heart and let the love of God fill every part. Be honest about your pain, your sins, and your needs so you can experience the abundance of His grace. Then, out of this wealth of love, take the lid off and give yourself away. The world is waiting for you. The world begins under your roof. Start there.