Colton Dixon's new song, Through All of It, has been speaking to me lately. First, I started thinking about how, in different situations with people, I've taken more than I have given. Initially the songwriter, at least to me, indicates through his word choice that it is a situation where it was more than they could give. I likened it to a time of need. I need Cynthia to be a sounding board for "woe is me" moments but maybe there is no way that I can give her the same consideration at that time.
But, my mind can be a funny thing sometimes- could it be that the songwriter had more in mind than I had first thought? Maybe they were referring to God-
There are days I've taken more than I can give..
Have I been the same way with God? Hmm... and I think, I know, the answer to that is yes. (This isn't an exact comparison but enough to where it has taken up a lot of head and heart space.) I go to God in my time of need, despair, and wanting. I pour my heart out to Him; plea for his mercy and grace. I want His ear to hear my cries for help. I want explanations for his answers of "no" and "maybe", and usually I want them right then and there. I am grateful for His interventions, answers of "yes", and may even offer up a praise report at church.
However, when all is said and done, what have I given God in return for all He has given me? Can I return the "favor"? Applying my earlier example with Cynthia it is a reciprocal relationship- I return to her the time she gave me. So if God has given me His time to give me what I needed and/or wanted, what could I possibly give Him in return? He doesn't really need me for anything, right? He is God all- powerful and all- knowing. What can I give Him that He doesn't already have?
I've been remembering about days that I've taken more than I could give... to God... and have been asking myself- what did I give Him in return? Have you ever thought about this, too?
Next time I'll share my thoughts and answers to these questions. Until then, I'll leave you with these words from David the psalmist-
Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.
Psalm 25:8 (NIV)