Let God Increase Your Abilities

Chuckle: "A Texan caught an 8-pound bass. He told his Tennessee guide that 'in Texas we use that size for bait.' The guide nodded and threw it back."

Quote: "Time is opportunity disguised, and to kill time is to murder opportunity." --William Arthur Ward

"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share in your Master's happiness" (Matthew 25:21 NIV).

I have observed that when a person discovers he or she has a special skill (ability) or talent and begins to develop that skill, self-confidence builds and pleasure comes from applying that skill while striving to be the best. People receive satisfaction from knowing they are really good at something. As they develop and apply their skills, they begin to discover other things they are also good at. In other words, as we exercise our abilities, we discover other abilities we didn't know we had. Have you noticed that some people seem to do well everything they attempt.

On the flip side of this observation are those who have abilities, but because of a lack of self-confidence, motivation, or initiative do not develop and apply those skills in daily life. The ability is wasted, feelings of self-worth diminish, and they go through life feeling useless and ineffective. They conclude they are of no value to themselves or anyone else -- a self-fulfilling conclusion. What a tragedy.

When it comes to spiritual gifts and abilities, God's Word teaches us to be faithful in the using the gifts He has given us. The more you faithfully use the gifts and abilities God has given you, the sooner He will give you additional abilities and greater responsibilities in His kingdom's work. God rewards the faithful as He expands your abilities and gives you more opportunities for service.

It's sad when a Christian feels inadequate and doesn't realize he or she has been gifted by God for His service. To think we have no spiritual gifts/abilities is to deny the promises in God's Word. "Now about spiritual gifts, . . . There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord" (1 Corinthians 12:1, 4-5 NIV). "We have different gifts, according to the grace given us" (Romans 12:6 NIV). No Christian is without a spiritual gift -- a special ability given by our Lord Himself to be developed and used for His glory in service to others.

I have heard it said that God is more interested in your availability than your ability. He doesn't call the gifted, but gives gifts to the called. God looks for faithfulness in using the gifts/abilities He has given us. We are responsible for developing and using those gifts, in the power of the Spirit, to accomplish God's purposes. God always rewards the faithful and gives us great joy, peace, and contentment as we serve Him.

Love, Jerry & Dotse