Not Counting

Read or listen to today's Our Daily Bread devotion at http://odb.org/
Bible reading is Matthew 20:16

In today's verses from Matthew we have the parable of the hired workers in which the laborers who worked only one hour were paid the same as the men who worked a full 12 hours. The ones who worked the longest felt cheated even though they were paid the wage to which they agreed. Although this makes no economic sense, Christ is illustrating the principle that His grace is a gift, not something we earn. He also points out in verse 16 "The last will be first, and the first last."
It's easy for us to forget that we cannot earn God's favor and that His purposes are sometimes beyond our comprehension.
We complain because He gives an extra portion of talent to others, and overlooks us. The person next to you has a beautiful singing voice, while you are tone deaf. Another is a powerful speaker, but you tremble at the thought of saying anything before a group. Your friend seems to have more than enough money, even as you struggle to pay the bills.
You may never understand God's ways until you meet Him face-to-face. For now, just be thankful for the gifts that God does give you. You may not be able to sing on key, but your prayers are a lovely sound to God. Instead of speaking well, you may be good at writing. You might not be rich financially, but you are rich in friendships. God gives us the abilities that best suit us.
He also shows special grace to widows, orphans, the poor ... those who are "last" in our society but have first place in His heart. Remember that since God was willing to give us the gift of salvation through the sacrifice of His Son, what other gift do we need. Learn to be content ... someday God will reward you, not on merit but faithfulness.