Understanding My Natural Gifts & Abilities

God did not design us to live in isolation but in communion with people and creation. He gave us natural gifts and abilities to be instruments of blessing for others. In a large way, our giftedness within the network of human relationships/community informs our God-ordained function in life…how we fit in. We begin to see the daily needs around us as God’s calling to be His co-workers in creation. We see this principle throughout Scripture too. God gifted Adam a gardener; Abel a shepherd; Cain a farmer; Jabal a nomadic herder; Jubal a musician; Tubal-cain a forger; James and John fishermen; Lydia a seller of purple goods; Paul a tent-maker; Jesus a carpenter, etc. When we develop and live out our natural talents and abilities, we are doing precisely what God has gifted us to do within the framework of community. Hence, “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:17 God is glorified and His creation served!