Given a gift
Talents and abilities – they are undeniable gifts from the Father.
In 1 Corinthians, Paul speaks of being given the gift or talent of an apostle. He describes this as being entrusted with the mystery of God. I don’t claim to be an apostle, but I do believe I’ve been entrusted with talent and ability.
Though it is a mystery, God expects me to do something with it. And I’m not alone.
You too are gifted with talents and abilities from God. And like me, He expects you to do something with this gift. So we need to ask ourselves (at least) 2 questions.
2 Questions…
Above is the framework. I’m gifted. You’re gifted. We all have talent from God.
With that in mind, here is question #1.
1. Have you recognized your gifts and talents? What is your calling?
If God has entrusted you with something (which He has), it is imperative that you recognize what your gifting is.
I am gifted. God has given me the gift to communicate (writing, speaking, visual art). I am able to think strategically. God has given me the ability to teach – kids and adults.
These are my talents…my gifts…my calling. What are your gifts and talents?
If you aren’t sure what your gifts or strengths are, a great place to start is with the book Strengths Finder 2.0. It includes a test to help you identify your strengths – which are gifts from God.
What is your calling?
Which leads to my second question…
2. Are you letting others keep you from your gifts and talents?
Paul believed no one had the right to judge him when it came to fulfilling the call of God on his life. To be clear this isn’t the Miley Cyrus, tattoo art meaning of the statement,”Only God can judge me.” That’s not what Paul meant.
What Paul meant was no one but God was going to keep him from fulfilling his call…especially the condemning looks, thoughts or statements of others. I understand what Paul wrote. I have spent too much of my life allowing others to keep me from all God has for me. Too often, I allowed others to define my gift and calling rather than identifying it for myself.
If God has called you, don’t allow the comments, thoughts or even funny looks of others hold you back. God has entrusted you with something incredible. It may seem like a mystery to others – the calling of Paul was a mystery to some around him, but to Paul it was crystal clear.
God’s gifts, talents and call on your life might be a mystery to some in your life. However, if you are clear on God’s call, then passionately pursue it!
Remember though, it starts with question number one…what is your gifts and talents? What is your calling?
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