My first client is having trouble adjusting to living in an apartment after being so accustomed to life on the streets. I asked him if there was anything I could do to make the transition smoother for him and he immediately replied, "NO! That's the problem, you're doing TOO much and I don't have anything or anyway to repay you. I have nothing to give you." This broke my heart. I told him all we asked for in return for our services was to be grateful and that he follow the guidelines set for him in the program.
A few days later while driving to work (I have a somewhat lengthy commute now!)I was thinking about God's blessings in my life. A song called "Hear my Voice" by Jeremy Camp came on my ipod and the following words caught my attention: "The mercy you've given is more than I deserve. So I lay it down so I can heed your word." I instantly thought back to my client...what a strong picture of my relationship with God! God gives, and gives, and gives. And since it is impossible to out-give God, I find myself feeling guilty when I don't do certain things I "should." Just like my client, I feel like I need to give something back to God for all the ways He has saved me and continually given me more than I deserve. However, God tells me repeatedly exactly what I told my client... that there is nothing I can give Him to repay Him. All I can do is be thankful, and wholeheartedly obedient to His instruction for my life.
What shall I render to the Lord
for all his benefits to me?
I will lift up the cup of salvation
and call on the name of the Lord,
I will pay my vows to the Lord
in the presence of all his people.
~Psalm 116:12-14
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