Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. James 1:17

James tells us that God is the giver of every good and perfect gift.

Unfortunately, some people read a little bit more into those words than the writer intended.

Two of those people have to be Pennsylvania's Randy and Melissa Pratt.

A word of explanation is in order. Last summer, the Pratts put $1,772.50 into their bank. That amount, however, ended up being recorded as $177,250. Mr. Pratt said he considered the mistake to be "a gift from God."

Quite naturally, according to their thinking, God's gift should be appreciated and used.

Instead of telling the bank what happened, the couple took out their money, quit their jobs, and headed to Florida. That's where, as they tried to buy a house, the law caught up with them.

Randy and Melissa will soon go on trial for theft and conspiracy.

Now, I'm not exactly certain how far the Lord's good and gracious gifts might go.

Reading through Scripture I'm often surprised at the scope of God's generosity. Still, I don't think He manipulates bank numbers so His people can rob from the rich to give to the poor.

One thing I am sure of is this: by God's grace, and through the Savior's sacrifice I have been forgiven all my sins, promised a caring companion for all my days in this world, and a Redeemer to praise for endless eternity.

And that, my friends, is something you can take to the bank.

THE PRAYER: Father in heaven, I deserve nothing, but through Your Son I have been blessed with gifts unexpected, uncounted, and undeserved. May I always be granted a thankful heart and give a joyful response to what You Have accomplished. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

By God's grace, this devotion is freely shared with you. Still, I don't know all the people who need it or should read it. Won't you forward it to that someone? Direct them to sign up for the DD's at: http://www.lhm.org/email/register.asp. You may also click the "Forward this devotion to a friend" link below.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Genesis 39-40    Matthew 21:23-46

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