Day #31: Wednesday, February 3rd

Shaped for Success

Scripture References: Psalm 139:13-16, 1 Cor. 12:4-6, 1 Peter 4:10

Devotional

You shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb.  I thank you … God —you’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made!" (Psalm 139:13-14)

God designed each of us so there would be no duplication in the world.  That means that no one else on earth will ever be able to play the role God planned for you.  If you don’t make your unique contribution to the Body of Christ, it won’t be made.  Paul said, ​

There are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.” (1 Cor 12:4-6). 

Apply Your Abilities
“God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well.” (Rom. 12:6) You have dozens, probably hundreds, of untapped, unrecognized, and unused abilities that are lying dormant inside of you.  Some studies have revealed that the average person possesses from 500 to 700 different skills and abilities - far more than you realize.  

What you are able to do, God wants you to do.
You are the only person on earth who can use your abilities.  No one else can play your role because they don’t have the unique shape that God has given you.  Seriously examine what you are good at doing and what you’re not good at.  God will never ask you to dedicate your life to a task you have no talent for.  And the abilities you do have are a strong indication of what god wants you to do with your life.  “God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God’s many kinds of blessings.”  (1 Peter 4:10 LB). 

Embrace Your Personality
God loves variety and He created each of us with a unique personality.  Some are introverts while others are extroverts.  He made people who love routine and others who love variety.  Some are thinkers while others are feelers.  Some work best alone while others work better with a team.  “God works through different people in different ways, but it is the same God who achieves His purpose through them all.” (1 Cor. 12:6) There is no “right” or “wrong” temperament for ministry.  We need them all for balance and flavor.  

Like stained glass in a church, our different personalities reflect God’s light in many colors and patterns.  Appreciate your abilities and your unique personality knowing that it was God who shaped you for success.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for shaping me, inside and out, in a very unique way.
No other person can do what you made me to do.
Help me to see what you made me good at and not so good at.
I will use my abilities today to bring you glory.
Use my God-given personality to give flavor to this world.
I will be happy with who you made me to be, in Jesus’ Name.