Scripture and Prayer Topic: Gifts and Talents
Scripture: Matthew 5:14-16
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (biblestudytools.com)
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help us to not run from you, your Gifts. Help us to understand it’s okay to be afraid of sharing them, for we remember how your messages were not always well received. But, your Son took on a level of suffering none of us should ever see… by Jesus’ death, resurrection, and by the Grace of the Lord and Saviour of those willing to receive Him. Help us to understand our fear can be a healthy fear… one of adequately wanting to share your message of love for all who are ready to open their hearts. When we speak or sing without at least a small measure of fear, maybe then, we’d no longer be doing so… for you? At least that’s how I choose to see the performance fear within my own life. So, please stand beside us… however and whenever you ask us to speak, sing, and play within and of your love, your grace. Amen.
Personal/Professional Growth Tool Suggestion:
Write down five people who’ve motivated you to perform at a higher level and how and why.
TELL THEM! People think we have all the time in the world to thank or share that someone inspired us to BE better. But, we never know. People think others KNOW when they’ve inspired others; but, I have found they usually do not and are totally unaware of the little ways they inspire others. You never know what someone is going through; and, a simple “I just want to thank you. You don’t know this; but, you’ve had a profound effect on my life and inspired me to…..” can brighten the darkest, most isolated time in a person’s life.
Coping Skill Suggestion:
Write a few words of general encouragement for your best friend.
Stand in front of a mirror and say those words with the same amount of love you freely give from your well to others, to yourself. DAILY, until you live into them.
Begin anew at step 1, with fresh words of encouragement.