Have you ever noticed how muscles require exercise? In order for a muscle to be healthy and vigorous, it must maintain itself by movement and activity. Once a muscle deteriorates, a routine of exercise must be followed to restore the strength and flexibility.

The same is true with the gifts that God gives us. God is a generous, loving Heavenly Father who willingly showers gifts and graces on our lives. In fact, the air we breathe, even the day we have, have been bestowed to us by God. Our lives, our talents and abilities, our time and treasure have been granted to us as gifts from God. It is these gifts that God expects us to use in a way that demonstrates our love of God and our concern for people.

In other words, God expects a return on the blessings in our lives. They are not to be hoarded or held as if they belong to us or came from us. Our blessings, our resources and our lives are to be dedicated to God, taking risks with them to help build God's Kingdom.

The temptation, however, is to play it safe and secure, to be cautious and reluctant, and keep our resources for ourselves. But God can unlock your heart and you can discover the joy of releasing who you are and what you have to Him. You can see with gratitude that every moment and encounter is a gift from God. You can risk offering a return to God with the confidence that your blessings will bless others. And you can accept God's reward that comes to faithful and devoted followers of Jesus.

I hope you take the risk and use what God has given you.