But Lord!  I Can’t! 

Have you ever thought about the people in the Bible that God chose to do great things?  Moses, who said he was not a great speaker, God chose to lead the people of Israel out of slavery.  David, who was the youngest and smallest of his brothers, God chose to be a king. Noah, who had never seen rain let alone a boat, God chose to build and ark and save both mankind and animals.  

Now think of the apostles that Jesus chose. They were not powerful people in the community. They were just everyday people that decided to follow Jesus. That\’s how God works. When we see great things being done by common and imperfect people there is no doubt in our minds where the power comes from. We know that these people could not do these things on their own. God\’s power and strength shines most brightly when he uses everyday people.   

When you were born God gave you a set of talents and gifts unique to you.  As you grew, He showed you those talents through your success.  Many of us downplay the gifts that we were given believing that “anyone could do that.”  The truth is, while there may be some who can do what you do, your talents are what God has given you and that is what He wants you to use for His glory.  If you are still not sure what your talents are, ask yourself a few simple questions.  What are you interested in?  What do you enjoy?  What is it that you can do better than most? That is your gift.  It may seem small to you, but God can use it in a bold way if you will only let Him.  

I believe there are many women reading this post today who have dreams.  You want to do something so big and bold it scares you to death.  Maybe you want to start a business, go back to school, find a mate, have a family, or lose weight.  Whatever that dream is the great deceiver Satan has convinced you that you are inadequate for the task.

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.  Now, I DON’T believe that this scripture is telling us that we can overcome the laws of nature, or that I can have a trouble free, perfect life here on this earth.  But there is GREAT POWER in Christ that many of us have never fully tapped into.  When we have a challenge before us God is there and will help us and answer our prayers.  So why aren’t we boldly going forth to follow our dreams? 

The 1st step must be believing that it could happen. Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.  I believe it all begins with faith; faith in God and faith that He will keep His promises to us.    Without faith there will be no action. Without action there are no results. Even if our efforts fall short of what we envisioned, God will be pleased by our efforts.

The next step is to overcome fear.  Fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of the unknown.  Deuteronomy 31:6  Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.  Remember, fear does not come from God.  That is Satan’s tool.  Like Jesus, you must tell Satan to get behind you!  Read scripture and surround yourself with those people who will encourage you and build you up. Trying new things are never easy, but they can be very rewarding. 

The last step is looking at your gift through God’s eyes, not the world’s.  Satan may try to convince you that your talent is too small to matter to God.  DO NOT BE DECIEVIED!  Your gift may be one of encouragement, love, wisdom or nurturing.   These things are a critical gift for everyone.  USE THEM!  Matthew 10:42 And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.”  There is no such thing as a gift too small.  God can use whatever you have!  After all, He is the one that gave it to you. 

I Corinthians12:4-5  There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord.  Whatever gifts you have use them to bless others.  Regardless of the size you believe your gift to be, God can multiply its value and bless others.  Please, don’t allow Satan’s lies, fear or self-doubt to hold you back.  Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

So, start that business and give others a job.  Cook that food and feed the hungry.  Go back to school and get that job you love to support your family and be an example.  Lose that weight so that you can be more active in the life of your family and improve your health.  Send that card, make that phone call, say that encouraging word, crochet that blanket and gift it to someone in need. USE THOSE GIFTS! 

Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

God is pleased when we step out in faith.  No one knows what tomorrow will bring, but we have today.  Make the best of today.   Step out!  Have faith!  Tell Satan to get behind you!  Trust in the Lord and He will bless you!  Psalms 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.  When we do this we will stop saying, “But Lord, I can’t” and we will begin to boldly say, “Yes Lord, I CAN!”

So, what talent will you use for the Lord today? 

Written by: Brenda Poarch

Let’s Get Real!

www.letsgetreal.info