Fill Me Up

Pastors often use the analogy of a pitcher of water representing God's Spirit and cups representing us, God's vessels. They will pour the water into the smaller cups while quoting several scriptures concerning the overflow of God's Holy Spirit. These object lessons hold several valid points and clarify this entire spirit realm; however, these preachers frequently overlook a very important scenario.

Have you ever given numerous gifts to someone, simply expecting a gift in return? During December, many people give gifts, but they often bless someone with a present because of the expected benefits. This physical scenario translates directly into our spiritual journey with our Creator. When our best friends need help, we readily give it to them. Eventually, we realize the enormous amount of time we have invested in them, and we begin to expect something in return. We adorn the mindset, "Surely after all I have done for them, they will give back to me, right?" Unfortunately, the reality of their oblivion to our expectations leaves us second-guessing the past contributions to their well-being. We wonder why, after so much effort, we receive nothing in return.

God pours His Spirit into us just as a restaurant server pours water into a cup. Frequently, we pour out this gift into the cups around us. Pretty soon, surrounding cups fill with water while we stand empty. Thinking about the water we recently poured out, we wait and wait for the other cups to return our gift. This is where we go wrong. We can't expect these cups/friends to do anything for us; they are not the source of life and truth. The pitcher where our water originally came from, God, will administer the true gifts that we may need. James 1:17 tells us, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning" (NKJV)

Throughout this season of giving, ask God to show you your motives behind your generosity, and make the necessary changes in order to seek out His presence versus the gifts of others.