Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.

(James 1:17)

A local farmer wasn’t happy about the fact that the car dealer in town had been making quite a profit by charging extra for all the optional “add-ons” that increased the price of every car.  One day, the car dealer expressed interest in buying one of the farmer’s cows and the farmer saw this as an opportunity to get even.  He prepared an itemized bill for the dealer:

Basic cow – $500
Two-tone exterior – $45
Extra stomach – $75
Straw chopper – $120
Four spigots @ $10 each – $40
Cowhide upholstery – $125
Dual horns – $15
Automatic fly swatter – $38
Fertilizer attachment – $185
TOTAL: $1,143

While people are quick to assign a price to almost everything, the greatest blessings in life come to us freely from the hand of God. Imagine if God itemized his “add-ons” the way we do! What would he charge for a sunrise painted with red and orange, or for the gentle breeze that cools us on a summer evening? What would the cost be for laughter, friendship, the song of a bird, or the comfort of his presence?

Yet all these things — and countless more — are given to us every day, freely and abundantly. As James reminds us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.” Our Creator delights in generosity, not in charging fees or demanding payment.

Psalm 104 paints a beautiful picture of God’s lavish provision: He makes springs pour water into the valleys, provides grass for cattle, wine to gladden the heart, and food to sustain all living things. Truly, we serve a God who gives extravagantly, and he never sends an invoice.

So today, pause and notice the simple, priceless gifts around you — the warmth of sunlight, the sound of rain, the love of family, the peace that passes understanding. Give thanks for the countless “extras” that come with life in God’s care — each one a reminder of his endless grace.

Prayer: Gracious Father, thank you for the many blessings you pour into our lives every day. Help us to notice your gifts, to receive them with gratitude, and to share your generosity with others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Alan Smith
Reprinted with permission from Alan Smith’s Thought For the Day