" YOUR GOD GIVEN ABILITIES "

This week we will be discussing " Our God Given Abilities. "

I believe that we should always give to God what is due. We are nothing without our Lord Jesus Christ nor can we accomplish anything without the abilities that He has blessed each of us with. If we don't utilize our gifts and abilities, they will diminish.

Each of us have been given a special skill or two. God wants to fill us with His Spirit so we will use them for His glory. Now, think about your special talents and abilities and the ways you could use them for God's work in the world (and we all have talents, don't sit there thinking you don't have any). A talent must be used or it will depreciate. Listen, it's important that we apply ourselves. We are responsible to use well and to the best of our abilities what the Father has blessed us with.

When people reject Jesus, their hardness of heart drives away or renders even the little understanding they had. Some people, well aware of their abilities (gifts), believe that they have the right to use their abilities as they please. Now others may feel that they have no special talent(s) at all. Everyone has some gifts; find yours and use them.

All of our abilities should be used in serving others; none are for our own exclusive enjoyment. Look at this list of gifts and or abilities and imagine the kinds of people who would have each gift.

• Prophets had to be bold and usually were given the gift of articulation. 
• Servers (Those In Ministry) are faithful and loyal. 
• Teachers are clear thinkers. 
• Encourage (to exhort another) know how to motivate others. 
• Givers are generous and trusting. 
• Leaders are good organizers and managers. 
• Those who show mercy are caring people who are happy to give their time to others. 

It would be difficult for one person to embody all these gifts. An assertive prophet would not usually make a good counselor, and a generous giver might fail as a leader. When you identify your own gifts (and this list is far from complete), ask how you can use them to build up God's family. At the same time, realize that your gifts can't do the work of the church all alone. Be thankful for people whose gifts are completely different from yours. Let your strengths balance their weaknesses, and be grateful that their abilities make up for your deficiencies. Together you can build Christ's Church.

Until Next Time...
Jim,