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Success and struggle
The Bible teaches that God gives each of us certain gifts, and the grace to use them. But when we’re not working in our area of giftedness, we can struggle. We need to keep that in mind when we see a great achiever, or become a great achiever ourselves. Paul spoke five languages and wrote a large part of the New Testament, but he constantly struggled with what he refers to as a ‘thorn in the flesh’. When he prayed and asked God to remove it, God said no. ‘My grace is enough for you. When you are weak, my power is made perfect in you’ (2 Corinthians 12:9 NCV). So we need grace in the areas of our gifting, and grace for the areas in which we’re not gifted at all. We might be brilliant in one or more areas, but that doesn’t mean we’ll be brilliant at everything. We need to remember that when we’re dealing with other people. We shouldn’t get frustrated with someone just because they struggle with something, as God will have gifted them with other strengths. It’s even likely that they’re skilled in an area where we’re weak. We need to work at developing patience and learn to appreciate each person for the unique part they fill in God’s kingdom. We also need to remember that if God won’t remove a barrier or grant us an ability that we want, we should accept His decision, and try to understand what God’s trying to teach us through the challenges. As long as we live, we’ll soar in some areas and struggle in others, but we’ll find that God’s grace is more than enough for any challenge we face.
What Now?
Write out two lists – one of your gifts and skills, and one of areas where you struggle. Then thank God for both lists. Thank Him for all the gifts He’s given you, and thank Him for His grace and support in your weak areas.
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