Sowing Spiritual Capital

I’d like to think I’ve been the one who chose what I did with my life.

But when I look back, that’s not completely true. Just like everybody else, I have specific needs, desires, skills and talents. So, it follows that I’ve learned to focus on the things which sustain me—the skills and talents.

The thing is, I had to discover some of the things I can do well.

Because I didn’t know I could do them until that happened. When I was a kid, I knew that I had predominant gross motor skills. I realized that by comparing what I did with others. As a result, I chose to develop my talents and profit from it.

But, eventually, the Lord got my attention. I often say that He took hold of me by the ears and wouldn’t let go. That made it impossible to unhear what He said. And I’m grateful that I couldn’t because He showed me that I could do His work in ways I never imagined.

I also learned not to waste any time getting started. [see: Matt. 25:14-46]

His gifts to me were extraordinary—precious gems hidden in plan sight, revealed to me as spiritual capital, waiting to be invested for His purposes. From then on, I began to sow my seeds in a different field.

The irony of finding and developing spiritual gifts is that we often don’t become aware of them until we’re mature enough to develop them in a way that glorifies God.

But then, there’s a joy that accompanies authentic servanthood—the same joy that fueled the hearts of Abraham, Moses and the prophets Samuel and Isaiah:

“Here I am, Lord!”

So, leave no stone unturned seeking the gifts God has prepared for you. They don’t always fall in your lap. Define them, and seek to perfect them. Prepare yourself by honing the skills you already have and sharpening your tools. Then all you need to do is show up.

I guarantee He’ll put you to work.