7 Minute Read
Be Still
To the best of your ability, get rid of all distractions. Take a couple of minutes to breathe deeply, to quiet yourself in the Lord’s presence. Then, prayerfully ask the Lord to speak to you in this time and let Him know that you will be listening and will make whatever adjustments He will reveal to you.
Today’s Bible Reading:
Isaiah 3:1–5:30
2 Corinthians 11:1-15
Psalm 53:1-6
Proverbs 22:28-29
Listen to the Lord
Slowly and reflectively read the following verses and listen to what God will say to you through them. Then, consider writing down any insights He reveals to you.
Proverbs 22:29 (NLT): “Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than working for ordinary people.”
Reflections from Scripture:
Proverbs 22:29 provides a very promising principle. Skillful people typically are given some amazing opportunities.
(Remember, Proverbs is a book of general truths. The principles don’t happen all of the time, but they tend to happen most of the time. For a brief word on this, click here.)
So, how can we participate in the exciting words found in Proverbs 22:29?
First, strive for skillfulness.
How has God wired you, and what do you really like to do? If what you like to do can help others and bring glory to God, then develop that skill. Read about it. Learn from someone who knows more about it than you. Pray for God’s blessings on this journey. Look for opportunities to practice the skill so that you can get better. Ask for feedback from others and then make the necessary adjustments.
Second, use that skill.
Use it to bless others. If the Lord has blessed you with the ability to learn a skill, then use it for His glory and thank Him for it. Don’t look to be recognized by others. Just use your skill to bless others.
Third, do everything you do as unto the Lord.
There are plenty of people who don’t take pride in their work. They do things half-heartedly, and it shows. It’s laziness in action. But when you use your skill(s), realize that you ultimately represent Your Lord and are working for Him (Colossians 3:23-24). So do your best. Let others be impressed with the caliber of work you do.
Fourth, watch for ‘open doors.’
Generally, when someone is willing to use their skill to bless others, they begin to notice that God opens doors of opportunity for them to use that skill. As they pray for God’s wisdom and then walk through some of those doors, they may notice that other opportunities (grander is scale) will become available.
Proverbs 22:29 (NLT): “Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than working for ordinary people.”
Finally, stay grateful and humble.
Unfortunately, with our sinful hearts, we can easily turn God’s blessings into a curse. We can turn a wonderful opportunity to use the skills God has helped us develop into an opportunity for our heads and hearts to swell with pride. Don’t do it! If you remain humble before God, grateful for His blessings, and maintain a desire to serve others, God may continue to bless you with further opportunities.
2 Chronicles 16:9 (ESV) “The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him…”
Spend Time in Prayer
Lord Jesus, You have given me one life to live. Further, You have given me the gift of eternal life as I trust in You. So, help me to make the most of this life. Help me discover and develop the skills You have given me, and let me use them to the best of my ability to bless others and glorify You. I pray this in Your Name, Amen.
Matt Ellis is the pastor of First Baptist Church in Polk City, Florida (fbcpolkcity.com). His latest book is God’s Grace in the Real World. Connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
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