Have you ever met someone and thought “wow, they are very gifted”? What did that mean to you? If someone told you that you were gifted, how would you interpret that? Does it mean you have earned an impressive skill? Does it mean you are more intelligent than others? Does it mean someone found you under a Christmas Tree one December? (Okay, probably not that last one.) I have often witnessed people using the term “gifted” without seeming to give a lot of thought to what it implies. Now, maybe I am mistaken in some or many of these cases. It is entirely possible the people I’ve seen use this term are fully aware of what it means, and just choose not to publicly linger on it. Still, I believe there’s a trap we can easily fall into there.

I suspect that the most dangerous use of the word “gifted” is in describing ourselves. It’s so easy to say “I’m gifted” as a self confidence boost, or in some cases an ego inflation. We talk about being “gifted”, or even “blessed” as something we have that we deserve. It’s a thing that sets us apart, above average in some regard, that we cling to as if it’s owed to us. I know I’ve been guilty of that many times. I still struggle to remember sometimes what being “gifted” actually means.

Whether it’s academically, artistically, musically, athletically, or in some other form, we need to remember that our talents don’t originate from us. Sure, we work hard to enhance them. Some of us may have started ahead of the curve, others behind the curve, but we are not the first source. Our abilities are, as the term implies, gifts that have been given to us. God in his infinite love decided each of us would have talents and abilities uniquely fitting to us that make us unique. When we consider ourselves gifted, as well we should, we ought to remember that it doesn’t come from us. To call ourselves “gifted” should be a statement of humility, not of pride.

I don’t know if you fall into this trap, or if you know someone that does. I would ask you to join me in a challenge though. Over the course of this week, think of a few areas in your life where you are above average. Things you do well, things you might be passionate about. Call yourself gifted, embrace that title, and then take some time to thank God for his kind gifts to us. And remember, he gave us these gifts to be used, so use them. Create, participate, contemplate, do what you can do like no one else! You are an amazing creation of our heavenly father.

Lord, thank you for the person reading this right now. Thank you for the skills and talents you’ve given them, and the opportunities to grow them. I pray that we would remember where our gifts come from, and be encouraged to use them as we grow closer to you. Please continue to provide us the means to keep growing, and keep glorifying you. In your name we pray, Amen.

1 Peter 4:10 (ESV) – As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace