Using our gifts. Hopefully by now you have identified at least one or some of your gifts. The big question is – are you using your gifts? Sometimes it’s a gift, or gifts, that God has given us to use in our careers. Often though, we look at it through the eyes of the world and can’t imagine how we can support ourselves using these gifts. There comes a moment of decision. Do we follow the path God has given us or stay in our comfort zone? There is usually transition time involved, kind of like stepping into cold water one step at a time.  It’s sometimes a very fine line to know when and if to “step out of the boat” (or box where we have been comfortably living). That was a situation my cousin and his wife faced several years ago. [Their story is in my post titled “GIFTS- part 1 {7.24.18}”.] They decided to take the leap of faith and have not looked back. God has allowed them to provide for their needs and they are enjoying the life He planned for them. In the process of loving their life, they are giving joy to many others by using their artistic gifts.

1 Corinthians 12:4-6 says “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.”

My job for the past 20 years has been incredible. I was able to use my gifts that God had grown through my life experiences. I mean this in a very nice way but raising five children gave me a lot of practical experience – enough said. I have thoroughly enjoyed my job. The company is wonderful and has integrity and values that match mine. While now I only work occasionally, I still enjoy it. That’s not always the case though. Many do not enjoy their jobs.  If not, prayerfully consider a change. But, maybe you are there for a reason that you just don’t see yet. Keep your spiritual eyes and ears open. Answers come – just not always in our timing.

Maybe your gifts aren’t to be necessarily used in a business/career way but rather to bless others in your family or community. Using our gifts to help, bless or encourage others is a wonderful use of them.

Romans 12:13 – “Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”

Maybe you earn a great living and can share monetarily. Your gift may be cooking or baking which gives you opportunity to share with a shut-in, someone sick or a new mother or neighbor. Do you love to work in a garden or lawn? Perhaps you know someone who could use some help. If you have a skilled trade, you can help someone while saving them money on repairs needed around their home. Some people have no way to and from doctor appointments, grocery shopping, etc. If you like to drive and meet people, this may be an opportunity for you to use your gift. Do you love to clean? I’ve heard some people do (smiling as I type this). I’m sure you can find a place that needs your help. Me, I enjoy quilting. Even more, I enjoy making quilts as gifts, specifically designed for the recipients. That brings me great joy.

Proverbs 3:27 says “Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act.”

The point is, just like any skill we have – if we don’t use it, we may lose it. Let’s consider our gifts and what it is we are doing with them. Maybe God has a better plan than the one we’ve been using.

Hebrews 13:16 – “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased