Strengths

06 Mar Strengths

Truthfully I could develop a whole blog dedicated to the topic of strengths. In fact, numerous books have been written on that very topic. With that said, I am going to attempt to write a concise post on how we distinguish ourselves with our strengths.

First, let’s level set and make sure we are all on the same page. When I refer to strengths in this post, I am referring to ALL the things that make you you. I am referring to your talents, your gifts, your training, your education, your experience, your physical traits, your genetic makeup, your family history, and yes, even your weaknesses. Like I said, ALL things that are unequivocally you. Why? Because our gift to the world is the manifestation of all those characteristics combined. Your calling and your purpose resides right in the package that is sitting there reading this post.

Jesus chose twelve disciples to travel with him during His ministry. These men would eventually go on to start the early church and to leave a legacy for generations to come. But note, Jesus did not choose 12 ministers or priests. He didn’t just choose scholars or the most successful. He didn’t choose perfect people. He chose men as they were, where they were. For example, He chose fishermen and made them fishers of men. Some of His choices would later betray Him, deny Him, and doubt Him. Why did Jesus choose such a diverse, imperfect bunch? Because He wanted to show just how God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. These men were walking, talking billboards of God’s grace and mercy.

In the last few posts, I have talked about how we distinguish ourselves by living out our faith through our actions and by living a life of integrity. We also distinguish ourselves by simply being ourselves and sharing all our unique attributes and strengths. Are you naturally skilled at writing or speaking? God wants to use you. What did you go to school for and what are you trained in? God wants to put those skills to work to advance His kingdom. What is your biggest shortcoming? God wants to manifest His glory through your weakness. You are a one of a kind creation. God is not in the business of cloning. He knew exactly what He was doing when He created you and He did it with a purpose and a plan.