As I drove to work today -listening to the same album for the 5th day - I was quietly reminded that God has gifted me.
A friend recently asked our small group - what are we passionate about? How has God gifted us? I was silent. I wasn't sure what to say. Sometimes it is easy to assume that if we do something well - that that is a gift from God - as opposed to a talent to be used by God. The thought that came to my mind was "Bible Study" - I am passionate about Bible Study. But am I? I have actually been resisting it for quite a while. Yes some of that is due to some internal wrestling with God - or avoidance of God. I am still wrestling - not so much avoiding. But another friend last week was encouraging me to use my daily drive into the office to listen to praise songs. So I heeded her advice - plugged in my iPod and settled on to the album "All Things are Possible" - by Hillsongs Australia. And it stayed there. The first day, I actually cried during one of the songs - not sobbing, but the tears just came. It was beautiful.
This morning, I had actually decided to change the song to some classical music (Vivaldi's Four Seasons) for my drive, but while I was trying to find the song on the iPod - Hillsongs was playing - well - I just couldn't change from it. The beat and the words were so uplifting on a particularly stress-filled day.
Then God spoke. Gently - as usually. He has gifted me with a passion for communication. Strange in some respects. It's not specifically one of the Spiritual gifts but used in many. I do not feel gifted to evangelize - but I am willing to give an answer for what I believe. I do not feel particular gifted to be a teacher - for Sunday School - I call myself a facilitator. My organization skills are somewhat sketchy. And I prefer to edit other people's written works than to write originally. I think that stems from a desire to make sure that the message that is intended is the message that is received.
Then what comes to my mind? I need to study God's word because that is the most important piece of communication available. I am accountable for my handling of that piece.
I've also decided to blog. Why? Maybe it will help clarify what He is teaching me. Maybe someone else may be blessed. It will definitely provide focus for me but this blog has to come second to communicating with the One that Matters-- GOD.
Peace to you.
