This morning at church (or rather this afternoon because I believe the sermon commenced "after noon") the pastor was talking about the different giftings that make up the church body. He went over quite a few points with which I am familiar, though it was good to have them reiterated. Namely, those church members who ARE fully participating still cannot experience the Body as designed until those members who are NOT fully participating become engaged. This is outside of our individualistic culture, but the Lord really has designed it for us to rely on one another. Also, we need to make it a point to encourage those members whose giftings are less honored as a rule. Amen!
During the sermon, I felt the Lord tell me that I need to stop feeling sorry for myself for all of the things that I am not able to do. Self pity can be a sweet pain, much like biting the inside of your cheek or pressing on a bug bite. Feeling insecure about my lack of well-rounded talent and knowledge has become a similar habit over the past year. It is true that an acknowledged laziness prevents me from acquiring many skills (such as playing the guitar or speaking Spanish). However, there are many more areas in which I either have no natural ability or virtually no interest (i.e. cooking). However, I need to move on from focusing on these and rather focus on what the Lord has called me to do. I have definite talents and giftings and callings that should be cultivated, and I need to find my worth in the character of Christ in me rather than in what I can do.
Speaking of cultivation, I hope to audit two online classes through Kings Seminary, but I am waiting for God to provide the finances if it is meant to happen. One is Biblical Counseling and the other is Introduction to Psychology with a ministry emphasis. They start Monday, September 22. I really hope that it works out, particularly as my brain is stagnating in my current job.
Praise be to God for His wonderful works in Christ Jesus.
No comments:
Post a Comment