Glorify God through His Gifts

The Lord is generous in gifting all His children, especially with wonderful spiritual gifts. (Romans 12:6-8)

But have you ever wondered why one person may sing or draw better than another? I feel that earthly "talents", or skills, should not to be confused with spiritual gifts.  "He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as craftsmen, designers, embroiderers…" (Ex. 35:35).

I had no more choice in the so-called earthly talents the Lord blessed me with, than I had in choosing the color of my hair or eyes. I just knew from the time I was very young, I had fun doing certain things. These gifts are something we're "hard-wired" to take healthy joy in doing. So the artist/musician/writer/athlete etc. is more apt to pursue it from an early age, improving and building on that interest as they grow. As the person becomes more adept, the gift is shared and brings enjoyment to others. And that feedback encourages the artist to continue the cycle. Thus these gifts provide mental, physical and emotional blessings.    

Many artists don't discover their calling until later in life, and find comfort in it as they grow older, depending upon the Lord's good timing.

 The world usually credits the person who exhibits certain skills, rather than the Creator who has blessed them with these gifts. This may encourage a sense of pride making it easy to fall into the sin of envy, and be hurt by the judgment of others.

Enjoy your calling and use it to glorify God. "In everything you do put God first and He will direct you and crown your efforts with success." (Proverbs 16:3)