REFLECT: How did today's reading impact you?
"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 - NIV)
"Since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ's body, let's just go ahead and be what we were made to be." (Romans 12:5 Msg)
- Begin by assessing your gifts and abilities. Take a long, honest look at what you are good at and what you are not good at. Spiritual gifts and abilities are always confirmed by others. So ask other people for candid opinions. Some will not give it, but you know those who will... Ask them. Where have I seen fruit in my life that other people have confirmed? Where have I already been successful? Spiritual gift inventory tests have limited value, but the best way to see if I have giftedness is to experiment and try a gift on for size. Crossroads offers many oppurtunities to try a gift on for size. And don't forget our motto: "This is only temporary, unless it works!"
- Consider your heart and personality. Two of you have tried out that link to determine you personality (http://www.livingbold.net/articles/persona.html).. and I agree with the assessment! Ask more questions: What do I really enjoy doing most? When do I feel most fully alive? What am I doing when I lose track of time? (I love that question, ask the worship team, it happens every practice!)
- Examine your experiences and extract the lessons learned. In some cases, this will be a fun experience, in others though, it can be hard to look at the past pain. I'm told "The Healing Path" support group has done wonders in this regard. Want more information, just ask! Rick Warren suggests taking time for a life review retreat. Interested -just ask!
- God wants us to accept and enjoy our shape. Your shape was sovereignly determined by God for His purpose, so you shouldn't resent or reject it. God wants us to enjoy using the shape He has given you. Satan will try to steal that joy of service away by either (a)tempting you to compare your ministry to others (b) tempting you to conform your ministry to the expectations of others. Both are deadly traps that will distract and detract from the joy of serving in the ways God intended. Read 2 Corinthians 12:10, and determine to live for the audience of One- Him!
- God wants us to keep developing our shape. We are to cultivate our gifts and abilities, keep our hearts aflame, grow our character and personality, and broaden our experiences so we will be increasingly more effective in service. Whatever gifts you have been given can be enlarged and developed through practice. Take advantage of every training opportunity to develop your shape and sharpen your serving skills. How can we help? Just ask!
What I love about serving God at Crossroads is aligning with the mission "More to Christ, more like Christ, for His glory." That gives me focus and freedom. Another ministry principle we have is simply this: "We strive for excellence in all we do, but live with humanity, and leave the results to God."
"Gracious Father, thank You again for Your creativity in giving shape to my life. Help me to be creative in using, accepting, and developing the unique contribution You desire for me to give back as a part of the body. I'll start today, strive for excellence, and leave the results to You. Amen
What is my personality type? How can I make the best use of what God has given me?
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others.” I Peter 4:10 (NIV)
