refocus and delight

SPIRITUAL GIFTS

When I looked out my window two weeks ago, I noted the artists changing the ad on the side of the building. I was in awe of their talents as well as their ability to work on a platform on the side of a building (I have a fear of falling) A thought occurred to me: these artists are using their spiritual gifts and creating works of art. After a few days, the artists finished the ad featuring Le Bron James. I realized that this athlete is also using his spiritual gift. I also noted as I look out my window that he is not just featured in one building, but 2 more in the area.

Thought I'd share last Tuesday's devotional from Daniel Plan:

YOUR CREATIVE BEST

Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that...Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life. Galatians 6:4-5 MSG

Doing your creative best means to develop all that God created you to be. The goal is not to change who you are; it's to work with exactly who you are.

How has God shaped you? What work has he given you? Those are the kinds of questions the apostle Paul urges you to ask yourself. The Bible says God formed you the way a potter forms clay into a variety of utensils, each with different uses. "Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand" (Isaiah 64:8). Pay attention to the abilities and skills he has blessed you with so you can do the creative best with your life.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Who you are and the work you have been given in the world matter deeply to God, who has a good plan for your life as you leave your imprint on the world around you.

Daniel Plan Devotional, page 319.

On a similar note, this is what I read yesterday in the devotional WHAT ON EARTH AM I HERE FOR by Rick Warren in the YouVersion Bible App:

Don't Leave Your Gifts Half-Developed

Excerpts:

Jesus' parable of the talents illustrates that God expects us to make the most of what he gives us. We are to cultivate our gifts and abilities, keep our hearts aflame, grow our character and personality, and broaden our experiences so we will be increasingly more effective in our service.

Paul told the Philippians to "keep on growing in knowledge and understanding," and he reminded Timothy to "kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you" (Philippians 1:9b NLT, 2Timothy 1:6b NASB)

Don't settle for a half-developed gift. Stretch yourself and learn all you can. "Concentrate on doing your best for God, work you won't be ashamed of" (2Timothy 2:15a MSG). Take advantage of every training opportunity to develop your SHAPE and sharpen your serving skill.