What Is Your Gift?

I'm guilty of comparing myself to others. At a younger age I thought that I wasn't as pretty or as thin as other women. This has since changed and recently, I've struggled in moments of comparing my success and career progression to others.

Instead of being thankful in all things, I've allowed insecurities to sink in and lower my confidence at times. I will be turning 30 this year and honestly expected to be a little bit further in life with my personal and professional goals. Comparing myself to the success of others is not the answer.

Have you ever wondered if you would be more successful if your gifts or talents were just a little better? What if you had pushed yourself a little harder? What if you had more confidence?

The truth is... your gifts and talents are from the Lord. Appreciating the gifts is a way to thank God for these blessings.

What is your gift? Helping others, singing, planning, playing music, writing, teaching, parenting, serving? No matter where you are in life, there is a specific purpose for you and for your gifts.

Any gift from God should be treated as a blessing. He has blessed us with family, food, homes, and all of the other things that we don't necessarily need. God wrapped our gifts in a neat little package for us to open and use for Him.

Big or small, your gifts matter. Even if you are not classically trained on the piano but feel compelled to join the worship team at church, then follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Your talent can be used joyfully for God's glory .

Trust the Lord's purpose and prayerfully follow His path.

"Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails," says Proverbs 19:21 (NIV). God knows the desires of your heart. Have faith in His purpose.

I might not be a published author before my 30th birthday, but God has a specific path designed for me. Without the bumps and roadblocks along the way, I wouldn't have the knowledge and wisdom needed to pursue these dreams.

Unexpectedly, God changed my heart and granted new desires over the last several years. My personal and professional goals have changed immensely and I am proudly walking a new path with the Lord. I have gained confidence through His guidance and trust completely in His plan.

I encourage you to keep looking up. Pray for God's strength and courage to use the gifts He gave you. Using these gifts are pleasing to the Lord and will help you to find extraordinary purpose in a world where it's easy to feel lost.

Be confident in God's promise. Romans 8:28 tells us, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (NIV)