When my son, John, told me that the folks in his office were planning to have a Christmas party, I offered to bake my cheesecake squares and chocolate chip cookie bars, knowing they had been a big hit with this group in the past. As I was preparing the goodies for travel, John asked me to make two extra containers for his friends, Mark and Mike. When I told my son that it didn't seem right to give extra goodies to just two of his coworkers, he explained that it was perfectly okay because of his special relationship with them. As I prepared the extra treats, I thought about how this scenario might relate to how God distributes His blessings. While it's true that the Lord bestows a certain amount of blessings on everyone, it's also true that He blesses some people with "extra goodies." It's been said that God does not have "favorites," but that He does have "intimates." These are the people who have a personal relationship with the Lord, and who seek Him daily, desiring to please and glorify Him with their lives. The Bible says: "Friendship with the Lord is reserved for those who fear Him. With them He shares the secrets of His covenant." (Psalm 25:14 NLT) Those who have a reverential respect for God, and who put their wholehearted trust in Him, will enjoy a unique relationship with Him. They will receive divine revelation when they need it most, and they will see the Lord fulfill His promises on their behalf. Most of all, God's presence will accompany them daily.

This experience also reminded me of the Savior's words in John 12:26: "My Father will honor the one who serves Me." When I found out about the special relationship Mark and Mike had with my son, I was eager to bless them above and beyond the others in the group. How much more does the Father desire to shower with blessings those who honor His Son! If you have put your trust in Christ as your personal Savior and Lord, you should be receiving "extra goodies" from heaven daily. If you are not, you need to talk to the Lord about it. While some of His blessings are given simply because you have committed your life to Him, many are reserved for those who actively seek Him daily in prayer, praise, and the reading of His Word. Ask the Lord to show you how to restructure your priorities so that you can spend quality time alone with Him each day. Then be sure to maintain a lively expectation of His "bonus blessings" continually. This is not an attitude that says, "You owe me," to God. But it is a respectful expectation of God's faithfulness to His character and His Word. Lastly, make it a point to ASK for "extra goodies" from the Lord. Do your part, knowing that God is sure to do His!

Prayer: Lord, show me how to have a personal, intimate relationship with You, and help me to nurture it daily. Teach me how to pray for and expect Your blessings in a way that pleases You. Thank You that as You shower me with "extra goodies," I will be blessed and You will be glorified!

- J. M. Farro