Reciprocal Giving 1 Cor 2:12 CLICK TITLE FOR AUDIO
1 Cor 2:12 tells us that through the Spirit wee can know “the things that are freely given to us of God.” Just look at all the things God has given us.
God gave his Son – Jn 3:16, God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son.
His Son gave his life – Mk 10:45 – the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. In Lk 22:19 Jesus said, “this is my body which is given for you.”
His Son gives eternal life – Jn 10:28 to those of us who have received Jesus Christ, he says, “I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish.” John wrote in his first epistle, “And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son,” [1 Jn 5:11].
So, you should receive the gift of Jesus. That’s what John said in Jn 1:12.
And when you receive Jesus then you also receive his many other gifts.
He gives wisdom Prov 2:6, grace 2 Cor 12:9-10, power, love, and a sound mind 2 Tim 1:7, provision Phil 4:19, the Holy Spirit Lk 11:13 and spiritual gift(s) 1 Cor 12:1, and spiritual fruit Gal 5:22-23, etc. He gives us strength, help, safety, mercy, joy, rest, comfort, assurance, and the victory 1 Cor 15:57. And he giveth us richly all things to enjoy 1 Tim 6:17. He gave us his word Jn 17:14 and he gives us the kingdom of God Lk 12:32, and an inheritance Eph 1:11, Col 3:23-24. And there is there is still so much more.
Often when someone gives you a gift, you are inclined to reciprocate. After all that Jesus has given us, what could you give him in return?
Give him your heart – Prov 23:26 – when you give him your heart then he can give you instruction, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. You need all of these.
Give him your body – 2 Cor 8:5 – Rom 12:1-2; Phil 1:21 your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost. The creator knows the best way for your body to be used for his glory and your joy.
Give him your riches – 2 Cor 8:2-4 – 2 Cor 9:6-7; Acts 20:35; Lk 6:38. Giving is the nature of God. You are just like him when you learn to give like he gives. God loves a cheerful giver.
Give him your praise and thanks – Heb 13:15-16, 1 Thes 5:18. We are so prone to be spoiled. God has taken such good care of us. Thank him continuously for his goodness.
Conclusion: If you haven’t received Jesus, receive him today. There is nothing you can do to earn the eternal life he freely gives. Mk 8:37 says, :or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” If you have received Jesus, then give him the things he desires most from those to whom he has given eternal life.