DRAFT--
Today while I was completing my morning Bible study, Max Lucado guided my thoughts to introspection. It seems just when I need something, God provides it. Here, he guided me to see past the fog I've been living in.
I decided to identify my specific gifts. I chose 10 skills I should be capitalizing on in my rebuilding of my self image. Of course I can improve much more, and give in other ways, but as Max Lucado pointed out, "just because I like to sing, doesn't mean others will appreciate my singing. I have to have a sane realization of my gifts."
I figured I would be more successful if I limited myself to 10. 10 skills which are applicable to many situations in my digital media hungry social networking culture. By focusing on these skills and God given talents, I am doing two things.
First I acknowledge that God created me. I am special. My unique personality, experiences, and interpretation of my own gifts and blessings is my personal brand. (I can cash on this if I am smart and work at it.) I do not need to continue feeling blue. I am created by a master. God created me for his purpose. If I embrace those things he created in me which shine his light, I will find success, and better serve his purpose. This realization makes me happy.
Secondly, identifying these ten gifts allows me to narrow my focus. I can find a new job, adapt to my new role in society, and overcome the setbacks I have been struggling with for more than a year. By focusing on these 10 gifts/skills I will naturally strengthen them through use and practice. God will present situations in which I can utilize my gifts. For example, instead of writing clearer rules for the pool area in the apartment complex I live in, I can write something for a larger audience.
If I learn anything from this simple Bible study and the fertile thoughts that sprung up from it, I must learn that I am created by an amazing God for a specific purpose. His purpose is not clear in my desires, but might be glimpsed in the little gifts he has bestowed upon me. I must embrace this pursuit of excellence, even if it is not where I expected it to lead me.
My 10 gifts are:
