Image Credit: Malinky/PhotopinCC
I’m in awe of people who are musically gifted whether it be in vocals, instruments, arrangements, or lyrics.
For some it seems to come naturally. For others it takes years of practice and discipline.
In the church where I’m a member, we’re blessed to have wonderful musicians on our worship team. Some sing and others play a variety of instruments. I appreciate them all—those who sing and those who play the electric keyboard, guitars, banjos, and drums.
I must admit though—I’m especially fond of the baby grand piano. The fellow who plays it is a likeable guy and an accomplished musician.
I like the drums, too. They remind me of when our children were toddlers and they used my pots and pans as noisemakers. (Those early years held influence. Our son was in college theater and sings. Our daughter is in high school choir and plays her electric keyboard some.)
As we grow older we realize something about the talents God gives us. We understand that using our talents wisely (in other words— for His glory and not our own) are earmarks of maturity.
Think of all the wasted years we could save ourselves if we weren’t so stubborn about wanting our own way.
How many times have you seen folks squander a God-given talent only to admit later that if they had it to do all over again they’d do things completely different?
Some people spend far too much energy convincing themselves they either don’t have a talent, or if they recognize they do, they may fail to harness it and lose sight of the bigger picture. What’s tragic is when others see what’s happening, but any advice offered isn’t received well if at all.
It’s sad when we hear celebrities, sports stars, political figures, or even the ordinary Joe across town say “I wish I’d used my talents in a better way when I had the chance…”
And sometimes I wonder, too, if I’m living up to my full potential where talents and gifts are concerned.
I don’t play a musical instrument (though I used to play the handbells a few years ago).
I don’t have a claim to fame as an actress, singer, or reality superstar.
Athletics? Not so much, but I do like to watch.
A politician? I fear I’m far too fragile for that arena. Plus I like to sleep at night.
Now, there are other things I’m great at. Things that seem to take a certain amount of talent.
I’m a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend.
I’m fiercely loyal.
I’m an encourager.
I weld a mean casserole.
I create stories.
I never met a Post-it note I didn’t like.
You get the general drift.
The point is choose your instrument.
Tune it.
Play it well.
And for heaven’s sake—don’t set it aside and neglect it.
If this legally blind little girl is using her talent, what’s holding you back?
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PLEASE SHARE
Your gifts were meant to be shared. Here’s why:
Practice and discipline are key. Use your talents wisely.
Additional Encouragement
Why New Seasons Can Kick-Start Our Creativity
Are You Pursuing Your Passion?
What talents do you have and how are you using them?
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Blessings Always,
Comments 8
I was one of those people who was musically gifted – I could pick up almost any tune on the piano, build an alternate-hand accompaniment, and transpose to a different key.
And I didn’t enjoy it much. It was fun, in a way, but nothing compelled me to pursue it.
Now…well, I write. Most of the day is spent researching or writing my blogs, commenting on others’ blogs, polishing “Emerald Isle”, and trying to come up with the final cover design.
I’m a pretty good welder, metalworker, and woodworker, and use these exclusively on airplanes. OK, SOME home repair, but I don’t admit to it.
I’m pretty good with animals. Recently had a bull-with-attitude in the yard (we live on open rangeland) and he calmly walked down to the gate with me. When I told Barb she almost fainted, because she KNOWS that bull.
But I disagree that talents and parts of life can be ‘wasted’. That’s seeing it through temporal eyes. We’re citizens of eternity, and in God’s time our talents will always be there. Even now, the ones we did not have a chance to develop are being polished by the angels, waiting for the bright Heavenly morning when we choose to take them up.
Nothing good is truly lost. That is implicit in God’s promise, and I believe Him.
Author
Andrew, you are so gifted! Music, writing, home repair, bull whisperer—what don’t you do? (And anyone who builds airplanes has my deepest respect.) Oh—and aren’t you an artist, too?
I do think folks can squander talent (on earth) by not using their God-given gifts. If we recognize we are good at something, I believe God wants us to use it for His glory. Influencing lives now for His eternal kingdom later is something I believe we’re called to do.
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms…” (1 Peter 4:10)
Have a great weekend!
Point taken, Cindy.
I was thinking of my own circumstances, in which I’ve had to put aside talents to provide a home for the rescue dogs. There are times I’ve thought, “what if”, but that way lies discontent and eventual madness.
And yes, I did paint; I was inspired by the later Academic paintings of Turner, especially “Peace – Burial at Sea”, and his painting of the ship of the line “Temeraire” being towed to the breakers’.
I’d like to think that I paid him due homage; but all of the paintings are now gone, save a single sketch.
Author
Andrew, that makes me sad. But… you can always paint again. In fact, you should.
Ahhh. I see your POV. Thanks for clarifying. I understand what you’re saying now—your train of thought makes perfect sense.
As I evaluate where I’m at in the writing journey and praying about my next course of action, I find this very timely. Thanks!
Author
Julia, I know God is directing your path every step of the way. Praying for you, my friend.
I think the hard part is finding our talent. Then feeling confident to use it for the Lord.
Author
Terri, I agree sometimes it takes a lot of prayer and discernment. And sometimes, too, I think when we’re the least confident about a gift, God opens doors in such a miraculous way there’s no doubt about His plan. (Congratulations on your big news!)