“Since we find ourselves
fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts
in Christ’s body, let’s just go ahead and be what we were made to be.” Romans 12:5
(MSG)
He shaped you for a purpose,
and he expects you to make the most of what you have been given. Don’t let
another day go by. Start finding out and clarifying what God intends for you to
be and do.
Begin by assessing your gifts
and abilities. The best
way to discover your gifts and abilities is to experiment with different areas
of service. Until you’re actually involved in serving, you’re not going to know
what you’re good at.
Consider your heart and your
personality. This is simple - Paul advised, “Make a careful exploration of who you
are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that.”
Galatians 6:4 b (MSG)
Examine your experiences and extract the lessons you have learned. Review your
life and think about how it has shaped you. Moses told the Israelites, “Remember
today what you have learned about the Lord through your experiences with him.”
Deuteronomy 11:2 (TEV)
Forgotten
experiences are worthless; that’s a good reason to keep a spiritual journal. In
Heaven we are going to serve God forever. Right now, we can prepare for that
eternal service by practicing on Earth. Like athletes preparing for the
Olympics, we keep training for that big day: “They do it for a gold medal
that tarnishes and fades. You’re after one that’s gold eternally.” 1 Corinthians 9:25 (MSG)
Be wise today and always - use what the good Lord gave you!
