ITS MY BIRTHDAY AND I WANT A GIFT. 017

“Birthdays—a Time to Praise God—Under the Jewish economy on the birth of children an offering was made to God, by His own appointment. Now we see parents taking special pains to present gifts to their children upon their birthdays; they make this an occasion of honoring the child, as though honor were due to the human being. Satan has had his own way in these things; he has diverted the minds and the gifts to human beings; thus the thoughts of the children are turned to themselves, as if they were to be made the objects of special favor.... AH 473.2”

The same author of the above quote authored another quote that is one of my favourites, she says that it is the love of self that destroys our peace. Really, when self is hidden in Christ, we shall not be so fickle with our emotions. This is something that I aspire to, to truly, genuinely, live for others. Lord make that happen for me, and the person reading this that resonates. We will do our part, which is so little, and you do Yours.

“On birthday occasions the children should be taught that they have reason for gratitude to God for His loving-kindness in preserving their lives for another year. Precious lessons might thus be given. For life, health, food, and clothing, no less than for the hope of eternal life, we are indebted to the Giver of all mercies; and it is due to God to recognize His gifts and to present our offerings of gratitude to our greatest benefactor. These birthday gifts are recognized of Heaven. AH 473.3”

God thank you for you overwhelming love, please, please, please prevent me from not living a life that seeks to disperse these blessings constantly to as many as I can, for the rest of my days and years.

“A Time to Review the Year's Record—Teach them to review the past year of their life, to consider whether they would be glad to meet its record just as it stands in the books of heaven. Encourage in them serious thoughts, whether their deportment, their words, their works, are of a character pleasing to God. Have they been making their lives more like Jesus, beautiful and lovely in the sight of God? Teach them the knowledge of the Lord, His ways, His precepts. AH 473.4”

Help me God to reflect more, and to be consistent with it. I believe Christianity is a religion of –progress. I may not be perfect today, but every day I may conscientiously examine the daily record, comparing myself with Jesus and seek to climb that ladder that connects heaven an earth, with His help.

“Making God's Cause First—I have said to my family and my friends, I desire that no one shall make me a birthday or Christmas gift, unless it be with permission to pass it on into the Lord's treasury, to be appropriated in the establishment of missions.”

Dear reader, if you desire to give me a gift, this may seem corny, but, do something nice for someone that does not have the privilege of having as many loving friends as you and me, someone who is rejected, outcasted, or maybe alone, or just someone random. Then send me what you have done and I promise you it would warm my heart more than you can imagine.

God bless you.

I thank God for blessing me with you,

IJN, amen.