God-Given Talents
Talents are abilities given to us by God in His wisdom. According to the Scriptures, these gifts include such ministries as faith, healing, prophecy, teaching, administration, reconciliation, compassion, and self-sacrificing service and charity for the help and encouragement of people. We all have different talents and God-given gifts – they are all important and can be used for God’s kingdom. So how do we discover our talent? Prayer is the answer. Time in prayer allows you to reflect on what skills or natural aptitudes you have, what areas of your life bring you a sense of purpose and passion, and where you see God using you. You may even pray and ask God to help reveal to you what your talents may be.
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” Romans 12: 6-8
Barnabas was one of the very earliest followers of Jesus and a leader of the early church. His story is told in the Acts of the Apostles and he is also mentioned in some of Paul’s letters. Originally called Joseph, he was given his new name of Barnabas by those who knew him well, it means ‘son of encouragement’. Barnabas is depicted as a man who was delighted to see others exhibiting the grace of God in their lives, exhorting and encouraging them to remain faithful. He is an example of a generous spirit who gave sacrificially to the work of the Lord.
Like Barnabas, as Christians we are called to be encouragers, particularly of those who are weak in the faith or struggling. In the same way, we should take opportunities to praise those who bring glory and honour to God through lives that reflect their faith. In my own modest way, I try to be an encourager. I hope that I help and support lonely, isolated individuals when I visit them. I listen, smile, sympathize and take an interest in their lives and problems, and if the opportunity arises, I reassure them that God cares for and loves them. I express approval and appreciation of those who have done a good job, worked hard at a project, shown kindness to others, been generous, and given their time unselfishly. We are called to ‘love our neighbour’.
Love in Action
“Love conquers all.” (Omnia Vincit Amor) Virgil
Advice from St Paul in Romans 12: 9 – 18: “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
To do all this is difficult. No-one’s perfect. So aim high and persevere.