“Perhaps you don’t consider yourself all that useful; perhaps you don’t consider yourself a blessing in somebody’s life. Often, when we look at ourselves, we see only our limitations and deficiencies. We might think we have to be “more” of something for God to use us—more intelligent, more wealthy, more charismatic, more talented, more spiritual. Blessings will come not so much because of your abilities but because of our choices. And the God of the universe will work within and through you, magnifying your humble efforts for His purposes.” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “A Yearning For Home,” October General Conference 2017)
I have found myself in the trap of the “not enough” frequently. I am not a crafter. My house is a mess. I am willing to serve, but not always great at seeing others needs. I am great at advice, but sometimes what is really needed is for me to just shutup and listen. I am not as good at that… I am a talker and don’t always have great impulse control. The classic ways of serving others are not really my forte. Others seem to have so many talents that I just completely lack.
But God created us to be individuals. We all have different strengths and weaknesses. We all go about things a little differently. If God wanted us to all serve in the same way, he would have given us all the same talents. No. God needs our differences. He needs our individuality. He needs your unique gifts just as much as the standard, “typical,” more visual talents. Our job is to figure out what our gifts are, and then figure out how we can use them to serve others. When we make that effort, God will use us to do great and mighty things—or maybe just small, but equally wonderful things for the one person who needed it at that moment.
Meditation and Journaling Prompt: What are your unique talents and gifts? How can you use them to serve?
Mindfulness Tip: “When you are meditating by using your breath as your anchor to the present moment, keep observing mind active by saying in and out silently to yourself as you breathe. This will help you gently tether your awareness to your breath. Keep alert for movements of the mind that draw your attention away from the breath.” (Rogers, Holly B. 2016. “The Mindful Twenty-Something.” Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications, Inc.)