In the middle of President Lincoln’s Presidency, an elderly lady made an appointment to see him. As she entered his office, he inquired, "How can I be of service to you, Madam?"

The lady answered, "Mr. President, I know you are a very busy man, and I have not come to ask you for anything. I simply came to bring you this box of cookies."

There was a long silence. Tears flowed from Lincoln’s eyes as he began:

"Madam, I am greatly moved by what you have done. For since I have become President, people have come into this office one after another asking for favors and demanding things from me. You are the first person who has ever entered these premises asking no favor but bringing a gift. I thank you from the bottom of my heart."²

Yesterday we celebrated Thanksgiving and gave thanks to God for the many blessings he gives us. Yet today, people across the country are running to the stores to fulfill their premade lists of Black Friday items they want to buy! Now, there is nothing wrong with buying a needed item on sale. However, many will buy simply because the item is on sale, not because they need it. Before we run out and spend money on unnecessary items, could this be an opportunity God is giving us to bless someone else? One of the best gifts we can give God, is by caring for those in need.

God cares for us, and when we learn to trust his provision in our life, we will experience His peace and contentment in our lives. Let us not forget all the things we are thankful for and may this attitude of gratitude lead us to practice generosity towards those around us.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, in moments when I start to worry about the things I don’t have, let me bring it to you in prayer and trust your faithfulness. Help me learn to be content and keep me from the temptation of always wanting more. Please shift my focus to ways in which I can bless someone else today and show them your love. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1. Philippians 4:6-7.

2. www.sermoncentral.com