August 31 Thought for the day....know who you are

We all what to accomplish great things. We want to be a blessing. There are times when especially if you are very good at something, it is quite possible that you could be asked to do something that is beyond your abilities and you end up failing. When we know who we are it saves us from such mistakes. The Bible talks about that in Romans 12:3

"For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith."

Paul wants us to understand who we are, the phrase "not to think of himself more highly" means to think rationally, think respectfully, understand your own limits and respect them. We all know when we are starting to burn out when we have taken on far too much. Paul is saying know your giftings and know your limits and respect the way the Lord has gifted you so that you will be a success.

The idea of acting "soberly" is evaluating what exactly what you can do. God wants everyone to use their gifts and function in them to their fullest. If you are doing things that you are not called to do you may find yourself burning out, getting depressed, and feeling like a failure. It is the same if you are sitting on your gifts and not using them. It is funny, but you can feel burned out and depressed because you aren't using your gifts.

Recognize the gifts of others and encourage them to use their gifts. Recognize your gifts and apply them to serve the Lord and His people but also recognize your limitations. Each of us is given a "measure of faith." we all have a calling, a purpose, and the faith given to us to accomplish that purpose. Stay focused on your call and do it to the best of your ability. Balance what you are called to do, know who you are and what someone else is called to do. Encourage others to follow their call so together God's purpose will be complete on "earth as it is in heaven."