One of the lessons I have learned from this class that has really stuck with me is that we are all wired uniquely and differently by God. Knowing this is like breathing in deep a breath of fresh air! Gone is the pressure of having to "be like someone else".
It took me a really LONG time for me to realize that I simply cannot change how God has wired me! For example, I am a major introvert! As an introvert, I tend to be quiet and shy. I enjoy reading books and watching movies more than going out to social functions (with the exception being church functions). Also, when I am at work, I tend to keep to myself and concentrate solely on working instead of socializing. At previous jobs, I would always think to myself: "At the next job, I will be more outgoing and make lots of friends". However, when I arrived at the new job, I would stay the same and not change. I have finally come to realize that trying to force myself to be something that I am not is a practice in "futility" (and a complete waste of my time). I can only be what God created me to be--- strengths, weaknesses and all.
In all honesty, I should delight in every aspect God has created me to be including my weaknesses! If I give everything over to God, God can even use my weaknesses for His glory and for the purpose of ministering to other people!
So take the opportunity to delight in who God has created you to be! Take a look at your weaknesses and ask God how He can use those weaknesses for His glory and His ministry!
that's an excellent way to look at things. Like I mentioned before, I used to think that I was lacking something because I didn't have the leadership skills that some people have. But then I discovered that a lot of people are in the same boat. I'm so happy that my kids LOVE to be out there and lead people. Not saying I won't love them if they were like me lol it's just amazing to watch and see them guide people in the right direction. Have you used any of your personal spiritual gifts to minister to someone?
ReplyDeleteI have definitely used my past experiences to minister to other people. I find that is someone (mainly on the internet) is going thru something similar that I went thru that I really enjoy ministering to them. There was a time where I was struggling with an area in my life for years. In recent years, God has sent a lot of people to me thru the internet that is going thru the same thing that I went thru (and that on occasion I still go thru). I find it great joy to minister to such people.
DeleteIntroverts can be wonderful leaders as well. I know that might seem funny to some people, hearing the word leader and introvert in the same sentence but I don't think that leaders necessarily have to be outgoing and loud. Some people prefer the quiet nature of others to guide them in the right direction. You're right, God can use every single one of us!
ReplyDeleteYes, I have heard the same thing. There were 2 separate times where I felt God wanted me to be a pastor, but I really have no desire to preach.
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