SHAPED FOR SERVING GOD 1
One of the mottoes that has kept me going over the years is: "ASSIGNMENTS FROM GOD ALWAYS INCLUDES ENABLEMENT". I am not sure where I found it, but I have discovered that it is similar to Rick Warren's `SHAPE' teaching.
"Whenever God gives you an assignment, He always equips us for what we need to accomplish it." *1
I am not sure what my assignment for 2013 is yet, but I do know that I have run out of excuses and it is time to except "His call", wherever that may be.
"Abraham was OLD, Jacob was INSECURE, Leah was UNATTRACTIVE, Joseph was ABUSED, Moses STUTTERED, Gideon was POOR, Samson was CO-DEPENDENT, Rahab was IMMORAL, David had an affair, as well as other FAMILY PROBLEMS. Elijah was SUICIDAL, Jeremiah was DEPRESSED, Jonah was RELUCTANT, Naomi was a WIDOW, John the Baptist was ECCENTRIC, Peter was IMPULSIVE and hot tempered, Martha WORRIED a lot, Zaccheaus was UNPOPULAR. Thomas had DOUBTS, Paul had POOR HEALTH and Timothy was TIMID. That is quite a variety of misfits, but God used each of them in His service." *1
As I read over this list I identified with a number of these different people. I have used many of these as excuses for service and ministry over the years, but because I have always known that I have been 'shaped to serve God' I have always allowed the Lord to use me.
Yesterday I met my niece for the first time in 3 years and she shared with me her goals for the future. After she finishes University she hopes to go overseas and help build schools and teach in 3rd World Countries. Nicole's mother died when she was 5 years old, a little older than I was when I lost my mother. Her father married into quite a dysfunctional family, again like me. Nicole now lives with her Dad and brother and is determined to `serve'. She reminds me a lot of myself at that age. Both of us have risen above what some people might say are difficult circumstances with a desire to serve others. Why? I believe it is because it is God's plan for our lives, and like all of God's children, we are `SHAPED TO SERVE'.
SPIRITUAL GIFTS
The Bible is clear about why we are given spiritual gifts.
"A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church."
1 Corinthians 12:7 (NLT)
Over Christmas we were given a number of gifts. Mine, unfortunately, do not work unless in certain conditions. Mark's only works if he takes it out of the box. Consequently we have been unable to enjoy them, but more importantly we have not shared them with others. When I gave my mum and dad their gift - their favourite Daniel O'Donnell DVD's - the first thing they did was put them on so that everyone could be blessed.
"An unopened gift is worthless." *1
The last few years have been difficult for me, and consequently I have allowed what I believe to be my spiritual gifts to diminish. Slowly and surely, the `fear' that is holding me back is going away, as I am discovering new ways to use my gifts. I look forward to 2013 - not sure what it holds, but excited about the possibilities, as I open my heart to discover what God has in store.
LISTENING TO YOUR HEART.
Have you ever been in a situation where you just feel `good about something'. The other day I was in a $2 shop and saw some affirmation stickers. I commented to my mum that what I missed most about teaching was the opportunities I had to encourage my students. Another lady heard me and made a comment. What followed was a `lively' discussion about the need for Special Needs teachers in Victoria. I walked away with my heart racing and a spring in my step I hadn't had for a long time. Later that night as I was sitting at home, I felt like I was sitting more confidently - back straighter, head higher, legs positioned like I was ready for a new `race'.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us." Hebrews 12:1
Whether it was the feeling of being wanted and needed, something that has alluded me of late, or my passion may have just been renewed, I don't know. But I decided that no matter what anyone said, I would continue to listen to my heart more.
A few weeks ago I had a job interview at a little church in the inner suburbs of Melbourne. During the interview I had felt a similar enthusiasm. The church elders asked me if I would I be able to preach and teach Religious Education? They also spoke of their plans about visiting the families of their Kids Club children and bringing new families into the Church, and again my heart started pulputating and I got a little excited, for these are all things I have done before and would love to do again.
Unfortunately, after leaving the `safety' of the Church and the manse, I walked out into the `big wide world of Sydney', and a wave of discouragement and depression came over me. I had the enthusiasm, but does this mean I'd be effective. Some of my friends have said this doesn't matter, just go with your heart. Others have said, ignore the heart and look at the `practical'.
Personally, like my mate Rick Warren, I believe in `serving the Lord with all my heart', and that enthusiasm and effectiveness should go together. It takes me back to my motto: `ASSIGNMENTS FROM GOD ALWAYS INCLUDES ENABLEMENT'. So for now, all I can do is simply `wait on the Lord', and pray that no matter where the Lord leads me, I will have the strength to go.
"I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from Him." Psalm 62:2
"But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:41
APPLYING YOUR ABILITIES
"You shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother's womb".
Psalm 139:13 (MSG)
Our abilities are the natural talents we have been born with. As we have been created by God, it should then be accepted that these abilities were given to us by Him. The Bible again makes it clear that these abilities were given to us for a purpose.
"God has given each of you some special abilities. Be sure to use them to HELP EACH OTHER, passing on to others many kinds of blessings." 1 Peter 4:10 (LB)
One of the most common excuses, which I have to confess I have been guilty of, is " I just done have any abilities to offer." Since losing my job two years ago, I had totally convinced myself that I had nothing to offer. Fortunately, I discovered that God uses all abilities, as long as they are used for His glory.
At one stage in my life I thought I could sing and was a pretty good actor, and I was given the opportunity to use these abilities. Even though I realize now they weren't necessarily `natural' abilities, God was able to use me to spread his message. The same is true of the opportunities he has given me to preach. Two abilities that I seem to come naturally and are not lost, are my love and talent for teaching and writing, and I hope I can continue to develop these for His glory and in encouraging others.
"The Bible is filled with examples of different abilities that God uses for His glory: artistic ability, architectural ability, administration, cooking, boat making, debating, designing, farming, fishing, gardening, leading, managing, making music, needlework, painting, inventing, building and carpentry, being a soldier, literature and poetry." *1.
USING YOUR PERSONALITY
God loves variety. Just look around. Each of us has a unique personality.
"God made introverts and extroverts. He made those who love routine and those who love variety. He made some people to be `thinkers' and others `feelers'. Some people work best when give an individual assignment, while others work better in a team." 1
Watching my son Aaron and his wife Emily I am continually inspired, and very proud. Not only are they giving their all in serving others, they are really happy in God's service; because their work suits their personality.
"Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people". Colossians 3:23
Today Aaron showed me around his workplace at Hillsong Church. I could imagine him sitting in his `office' alone at his computer; yet other times he will work with the team to produce a quality production. Emily in her work at the Terry White Chemists spends time alone doing paperwork; yet other times she is out in the store meeting and helping people.
Now and then I will take a look at Aaron's website, and will read the comments made by his employers. They always mention, not only his excellence in his field, but his committment to serve others. Emily, too, recently received a promotion because they realized how important she was to their company. Last night she was honoured with an AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE, `for going beyond the call of duty in contributing greatly to a wonderful year of progress'.
I know from experience,` it feels good to do what God made you to do', `you experience fulfillment, satisfaction and fruitfulness', when you minister in a way that is consistent with your personality.
EMPLOYING YOUR EXPERIENCE
All the experiences you have throughout your life, be them positive or negative, have an important part to play in how God shapes you for service. Family experiences, educational experiences, vocational experiences, spiritual experiences, ministry experiences and painful experiences can all be used you serve.
"He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." 2 Corinthians 1:4
I sometimes get depressed when others tell me my University training was a waste of time, for now I am not teaching. But if you have read my other blogs, you will know that at University I learnt more than just how to teach. Oh I learnt a lot of intellectual stuff, but during this time I also had many opportunities to `minister' to others. I am also told that haven't taught long enough to make a significant contribution. Again, I disagree, for even though I may have taught for only a short time, compared to many others, I believe I touched many a families life in those 10years.
Yesterday I received an email telling me I did not get a job because they `employed someone with more experience'. I may not have had the opportunities and the experience as many others have had and I have also had many painful experiences - but all of these have helped me to be the servant God wants me to be.
"Experience is not what happens to you. It is what you do with what happens to you." (Aldous Huxley)
God has created us to be his special servants. We can only be effective in our areas of service when we use our SPIRITUAL GIFTS and ABILITIES in areas where we have the most HEART filled passion and where our PERSONALITY and EXPERIENCE is most suited.
*1: `The Purpose Driven Life' - Rick Warren, (1954), Zondervan Publishers.
"Whenever God gives you an assignment, He always equips us for what we need to accomplish it." *1
I am not sure what my assignment for 2013 is yet, but I do know that I have run out of excuses and it is time to except "His call", wherever that may be.
"Abraham was OLD, Jacob was INSECURE, Leah was UNATTRACTIVE, Joseph was ABUSED, Moses STUTTERED, Gideon was POOR, Samson was CO-DEPENDENT, Rahab was IMMORAL, David had an affair, as well as other FAMILY PROBLEMS. Elijah was SUICIDAL, Jeremiah was DEPRESSED, Jonah was RELUCTANT, Naomi was a WIDOW, John the Baptist was ECCENTRIC, Peter was IMPULSIVE and hot tempered, Martha WORRIED a lot, Zaccheaus was UNPOPULAR. Thomas had DOUBTS, Paul had POOR HEALTH and Timothy was TIMID. That is quite a variety of misfits, but God used each of them in His service." *1
As I read over this list I identified with a number of these different people. I have used many of these as excuses for service and ministry over the years, but because I have always known that I have been 'shaped to serve God' I have always allowed the Lord to use me.
Yesterday I met my niece for the first time in 3 years and she shared with me her goals for the future. After she finishes University she hopes to go overseas and help build schools and teach in 3rd World Countries. Nicole's mother died when she was 5 years old, a little older than I was when I lost my mother. Her father married into quite a dysfunctional family, again like me. Nicole now lives with her Dad and brother and is determined to `serve'. She reminds me a lot of myself at that age. Both of us have risen above what some people might say are difficult circumstances with a desire to serve others. Why? I believe it is because it is God's plan for our lives, and like all of God's children, we are `SHAPED TO SERVE'.
SPIRITUAL GIFTS
The Bible is clear about why we are given spiritual gifts.
"A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church."
1 Corinthians 12:7 (NLT)
Over Christmas we were given a number of gifts. Mine, unfortunately, do not work unless in certain conditions. Mark's only works if he takes it out of the box. Consequently we have been unable to enjoy them, but more importantly we have not shared them with others. When I gave my mum and dad their gift - their favourite Daniel O'Donnell DVD's - the first thing they did was put them on so that everyone could be blessed.
"An unopened gift is worthless." *1
The last few years have been difficult for me, and consequently I have allowed what I believe to be my spiritual gifts to diminish. Slowly and surely, the `fear' that is holding me back is going away, as I am discovering new ways to use my gifts. I look forward to 2013 - not sure what it holds, but excited about the possibilities, as I open my heart to discover what God has in store.
LISTENING TO YOUR HEART.
Have you ever been in a situation where you just feel `good about something'. The other day I was in a $2 shop and saw some affirmation stickers. I commented to my mum that what I missed most about teaching was the opportunities I had to encourage my students. Another lady heard me and made a comment. What followed was a `lively' discussion about the need for Special Needs teachers in Victoria. I walked away with my heart racing and a spring in my step I hadn't had for a long time. Later that night as I was sitting at home, I felt like I was sitting more confidently - back straighter, head higher, legs positioned like I was ready for a new `race'.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us." Hebrews 12:1
Whether it was the feeling of being wanted and needed, something that has alluded me of late, or my passion may have just been renewed, I don't know. But I decided that no matter what anyone said, I would continue to listen to my heart more.
A few weeks ago I had a job interview at a little church in the inner suburbs of Melbourne. During the interview I had felt a similar enthusiasm. The church elders asked me if I would I be able to preach and teach Religious Education? They also spoke of their plans about visiting the families of their Kids Club children and bringing new families into the Church, and again my heart started pulputating and I got a little excited, for these are all things I have done before and would love to do again.
Unfortunately, after leaving the `safety' of the Church and the manse, I walked out into the `big wide world of Sydney', and a wave of discouragement and depression came over me. I had the enthusiasm, but does this mean I'd be effective. Some of my friends have said this doesn't matter, just go with your heart. Others have said, ignore the heart and look at the `practical'.
Personally, like my mate Rick Warren, I believe in `serving the Lord with all my heart', and that enthusiasm and effectiveness should go together. It takes me back to my motto: `ASSIGNMENTS FROM GOD ALWAYS INCLUDES ENABLEMENT'. So for now, all I can do is simply `wait on the Lord', and pray that no matter where the Lord leads me, I will have the strength to go.
"I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from Him." Psalm 62:2
"But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:41
APPLYING YOUR ABILITIES
"You shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother's womb".
Psalm 139:13 (MSG)
Our abilities are the natural talents we have been born with. As we have been created by God, it should then be accepted that these abilities were given to us by Him. The Bible again makes it clear that these abilities were given to us for a purpose.
"God has given each of you some special abilities. Be sure to use them to HELP EACH OTHER, passing on to others many kinds of blessings." 1 Peter 4:10 (LB)
One of the most common excuses, which I have to confess I have been guilty of, is " I just done have any abilities to offer." Since losing my job two years ago, I had totally convinced myself that I had nothing to offer. Fortunately, I discovered that God uses all abilities, as long as they are used for His glory.
At one stage in my life I thought I could sing and was a pretty good actor, and I was given the opportunity to use these abilities. Even though I realize now they weren't necessarily `natural' abilities, God was able to use me to spread his message. The same is true of the opportunities he has given me to preach. Two abilities that I seem to come naturally and are not lost, are my love and talent for teaching and writing, and I hope I can continue to develop these for His glory and in encouraging others.
"The Bible is filled with examples of different abilities that God uses for His glory: artistic ability, architectural ability, administration, cooking, boat making, debating, designing, farming, fishing, gardening, leading, managing, making music, needlework, painting, inventing, building and carpentry, being a soldier, literature and poetry." *1.
USING YOUR PERSONALITY
God loves variety. Just look around. Each of us has a unique personality.
"God made introverts and extroverts. He made those who love routine and those who love variety. He made some people to be `thinkers' and others `feelers'. Some people work best when give an individual assignment, while others work better in a team." 1
Watching my son Aaron and his wife Emily I am continually inspired, and very proud. Not only are they giving their all in serving others, they are really happy in God's service; because their work suits their personality.
"Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people". Colossians 3:23
Today Aaron showed me around his workplace at Hillsong Church. I could imagine him sitting in his `office' alone at his computer; yet other times he will work with the team to produce a quality production. Emily in her work at the Terry White Chemists spends time alone doing paperwork; yet other times she is out in the store meeting and helping people.
Now and then I will take a look at Aaron's website, and will read the comments made by his employers. They always mention, not only his excellence in his field, but his committment to serve others. Emily, too, recently received a promotion because they realized how important she was to their company. Last night she was honoured with an AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE, `for going beyond the call of duty in contributing greatly to a wonderful year of progress'.
I know from experience,` it feels good to do what God made you to do', `you experience fulfillment, satisfaction and fruitfulness', when you minister in a way that is consistent with your personality.
EMPLOYING YOUR EXPERIENCE
All the experiences you have throughout your life, be them positive or negative, have an important part to play in how God shapes you for service. Family experiences, educational experiences, vocational experiences, spiritual experiences, ministry experiences and painful experiences can all be used you serve.
"He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." 2 Corinthians 1:4
I sometimes get depressed when others tell me my University training was a waste of time, for now I am not teaching. But if you have read my other blogs, you will know that at University I learnt more than just how to teach. Oh I learnt a lot of intellectual stuff, but during this time I also had many opportunities to `minister' to others. I am also told that haven't taught long enough to make a significant contribution. Again, I disagree, for even though I may have taught for only a short time, compared to many others, I believe I touched many a families life in those 10years.
Yesterday I received an email telling me I did not get a job because they `employed someone with more experience'. I may not have had the opportunities and the experience as many others have had and I have also had many painful experiences - but all of these have helped me to be the servant God wants me to be.
"Experience is not what happens to you. It is what you do with what happens to you." (Aldous Huxley)
God has created us to be his special servants. We can only be effective in our areas of service when we use our SPIRITUAL GIFTS and ABILITIES in areas where we have the most HEART filled passion and where our PERSONALITY and EXPERIENCE is most suited.
*1: `The Purpose Driven Life' - Rick Warren, (1954), Zondervan Publishers.
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