I find that the hardest part about Christmas shopping is getting the perfect present.

 

Well, I've got some help for us with the perfect present for Jesus.  Here it is: Why not give Jesus the birthday present of something that will help us grow closer to and more like Him?  The Bible says (Rom.12:1), "Therefore, I urge you, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-- this is your spiritual act of worship."  So, after months of study, research and discussion, here is a list of things that are like nutrients and environments for spiritual growth:

 

Sun of Timeless Truths

• Explore the Christian world view

• Learn essential truths to grow in a relationship with God through faith in Jesus

• Regularly attend a Bible study

 

Rain of Arranged Activities

• Attend a church sponsored activity or event

• Regularly worship as time with God

• Participate in a small group

• Get baptized and join a church

 

Soil of Personal Practices

• Pray

• Regularly have personal/family devotions

• Periodically "retreat" with God

• Give back 10% of income to God through a church

 

Air of Compassionate Caring

• Experience spiritual friendships

• Periodically meet with a spiritual mentor or accountability partner

• Regularly serve others

• Share Jesus in my daily life

 

Personally, I am giving Jesus two things for His birthday: periodically "retreating" with God; and sharing Jesus in my daily life (since I tend to always hang around Christians).

 

What is your perfect present for Jesus?