Philippians 2:3 (NIV) - "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves …"
I had the honor of being 1 of 4 Faith Leaders that attended the bi-annual “Convocation of Black Pastors” in Atlanta, GA this week. I was so thankful to be surrounded by people that share the same love of the Gospel, yet also the same struggles within their ministries. As dynamic speaker after dynamic speaker presented their messages of “A Fresh Vision”, the Spirit of God was high and ever-present. Then, in crept Satan.
In the midst of such a great worship experience, I almost let doubt and selfishness distract me from being poured into by the gifted preachers before me. As I sat and listened to the women of God deliver powerful messages, I began to doubt and question my own gift. “Wow, I wish I could preach like that!” “If only I could interpret scripture the way she does.” “I may never be as good as she is!” I could feel myself sink into a puddle of self-doubt and my mind was no longer on the word of God. So I prayed the simple prayer “God help me to focus on YOU!” And He did just that!
So many times in our lives, we lose focus of the gifts that God has given us, because we are too focused on someone else’s gift. But here’s the thing the Holy Spirit reminded me of, I know what "they" are doing looks really awesome. And "they" make it look so effortless. Maybe you think "they" can do it better. But please remember, "they" are called, chosen and set apart by God for a purpose.
AND SO ARE YOU!
One thing I’m learning to understand about God is He’s got enough purpose and potential to go around. And His purpose isn’t a battlefield for competition; it’s a safe haven of calling. When we are in His presence, He gives us the confidence to believe we are created to do something great with our lives. His presence whispers assurance over our souls when we feel vulnerable. And His presence gives us the ability to cheer on that person next to us, no matter how threatened we feel.
Our gifts are not to make ourselves better or less than the person next to us, but our gifts are only about glorifying our God as we walk in our purpose and calling. It takes guts to release our insecurities to God and confidently move forward in our gifts. If we choose to walk in humility and value the gift that God has placed in others, we could move powerfully in ministry and the Fresh Vision God has placed before us, as we continue to grow and be Made New in Christ.
God, I thank you for the gifts and purpose you have placed within me and in those around me. Father help me to only focus on You and not doubt what you have placed within me. Help me to walk in humility, love and support. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
By: Min. April Carter
