The Great Exchange

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes on HIM should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16 This week at our annual staff Christmas party we always have a fun white elephant gift exchange where you can steal someone else’s gift or go for an unopened present. It’s always a blast to watch people maneuver to get the gift they really want, rather than leaving with something lame. It reminds me of the very reason for this time of year. It’s the season when we celebrate God’s greatest gift of all—His son Jesus Christ. Because of what Jesus did for us we’re blessed to have the greatest gift exchange ever. You see Jesus didn’t just come to be born in a manger; He was destined to die on a cross for all of us. And because of what He has done this exchange has already happened. Now all we have to do is receive these gifts by faith. Here are just a few of the gifts that we get to exchange: (1) For Sin we received Forgiveness In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace. (Ephesians 1:7, NKJV) (2) For Death we received Life And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins…. (Ephesians 2:1, NKJV) (3) For Depression we received Joy …for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace andjoy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17, NKJV) (4) For Anxiety we received Peace Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7, NKJV) (5) For Lack we received Abundance For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich. (2 Corinthians 8:9, NKJV) (6) For Sickness we received Health But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5, NKJV) (7) For Defeat we received Victory But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57, NKJV) Wow, those are some pretty awesome gifts. Just think about it. God loves you so much that He wants you to experience His gifts—of forgiveness, life, joy, peace, abundance, health and victory. I’d say that we’ve got a lot to be thankful for this Christmas season.