dotty!

On the discipline of possessions...

"The first lesson is that things are given by God
...Make no mistake, my friends. All good giving, every perfect gift, comes from above, from the Father of the lights of heaven....

The second lesson is that things are given us to be received with thanksgiving.
...We should be thankful. Thanksgiving requires the recognition of the Source. It implies contentment with what is given, not complaint about what is not given. It excludes covetousness....

The third lesson is that things can be material for sacrifice.
...The Father pours out His blessings on us; we, His creatures, receive them with open hands, give thanks, and lift them up as an offering back to Him, thus completing the circle."

-Taken from "Discipline, the glad surrender" by Elisabeth Elliot

Even as we approach the season of giving and receiving, let us not forget the Giver of all good gifts, who gave us the most precious Gift we could ever receive, and in response, offer whatever we have back to Him.