My grandmother's picnic basket isn't used for its intended purpose anymore, but fits this space perfectly as an attractive decoration.
What "goods" do you have in your "picnic basket of life" that you share with others? Are you bringing out encouragement, a kind word, patience, understanding, a listening ear? Sometime you will be in need of one or more of these. The Bible states you reap what you sow (Galations 6:7). Are you utilizing the special gifts and abilities (Romans 12:6) you have been given by your Creator or are they laying dormant?
It is important to be on guard to the negative things that try to creep in and taint and spoil our "goods" -- offense, unforgiveness, jealously, envy, being judgmental, arrogance, self-pity -- to name a few. We lose our effectiveness when we let any of these negative emotions take over. If we allow these negative emotions to take up residence in us, we risk damaging our "goods."
Also, we should try to keep our "goods" fresh, not stale. Have an open mind and do something differently once in a while. We all have varied styles and gifts, and your way may not be the only way. Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2) with the word of God and keep your prayer connection with Him strong.
This post is linked on Spiritual Sundays - http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/
So true and inspirational. I see that you have exactly the same style and colour kitchen units that I do.Mine to not go up to the ceiling though (wish they did, easier for cleaning) but stop at the height of the cupboard where your decorative picnic bassket sits. Thanks for visiting and commenting.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Barbara.
ReplyDeleteThe picnic basket makes a wonderful decoration and is special because of the sentimental value. I really like the way you used it to illustrate a good message. I'm so glad you chose to share this with us on Spiritual Sundays.
ReplyDeleteI really like your header picture.
Blessings,
Charlotte
What lovely thoughts. Certainly gives me something to think about - we are to utilize the gifts God has given us.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Joan
Good point. Thanks for sharing this on our gifts.
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed day!
Bethany
:) Just today I notice the picnic basket in the garage and was thinking, warmer weather is on the way... I can't wait to go on picnics again! So, I had to smile as I read your post. I think God wants me to go on a different kind of picnic....
ReplyDeleteAmen! Such true and life giving words! Sometimes I let my gifts be complacent and I just hate it when I do because I know I am allowing the enemy to win. I feel the tap of the Holy Spirit and come before my Heavenly Father and repent and get back to being about my Fathers business! So thankful for HIS Grace and Mercy and Forgiveness and also that HE never gives up on me even when I tend to give up on myself.
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed weekend
I loved this! I need to make sure that all my goods are still fresh. Thank-you for this post it makes me think. Is that your home in your header? It's beautiful.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Ginger
Inspiring thoughts thanks!!
ReplyDeleteBlessings
Bernice
thanks for these good thoughts.
ReplyDeleteGreat picture and beautiful decoration. You did an excellent job of illustrating and teaching. Thank you for this good message.
ReplyDeleteWonderful insights for us and so creative to use your grandmother's picnic basket to connect them too! God bless...
ReplyDeletewww.myautumnyears.blogspot.com
We just talked about this same verse in church today! We are studying Romans 12... so much wisdom in this chapter- I love how you put it all together, a great post for me to read today! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteLily
I am so blessed by all the comments! Truly, the Lord inspired the words. No, that's not my home in the header photo, although I wish it was! All the photographs are mine, except for that wonderful header photo.
ReplyDelete