Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – January 23, 2017
For I long to see you so that I may share with you some spiritual gift, to strengthen and establish you; that is, that we may be mutually encouraged and comforted by each other’s faith, both yours and mine. Romans 1:11-12, Amplified Bible
I met Greg a few years before the Great Recession of 2008— he spoke at a businessmen’s roundtable, where I, along with 11 other men, were members. Our speakers were always good, but Greg’s story caused me to lean in and not be distracted by other things on my mind. Humbly he told of his bold adventure of choosing family over career and character over compromise. Early on in our interactions Greg mentioned his desire and the expectation of his company for him to serve on a non-profit board, and ours was a perfect fit with the blend of business and ministry culture. The first three year term Greg served as our financial/fundraising committee chair and the last three years as our board chair.
Greg was an uber gifted administrator and equally skilled in relational dynamics. I never felt spoken down to, only lifted up by his language—expressed by his kind face and wise words. After the significant economic downturn I needed help, so we calendared weekly 30 minute calls to review our cash position and to lovingly hold me accountable to my fundraising calls, emails and meetings. For two years we faithfully communicated in our weekly rhythm, and boy did the Lord honor our simple solution to a very overwhelming problem. Our gifts were different, but our Savior, our values, our community and our common cause were the same! Faithful leaders depend on other faithful leaders to further the mission, especially during difficult days.
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us” (Romans 12:6).
What complementary skill set from a uniquely gifted team member or expert would give you needed emotional and mental margin in your life and work? Perhaps a virtual administrative assistant to assist you in calendaring appointments, respond to emails or book travel, and/or an experienced financial solutions company to assure your taxes are paid in a timely fashion and you are proficient in money management best practices—both personally and professionally. Engage experts in areas out of your expertise and you will become better at what you do best.
The Lord does not expect us to do everything ourselves—even Jesus—with divine capacity— sent ahead two disciples to secure a donkey, so He could humbly ride into town during Passover. The Body of Christ works together best when we do our best to honor all parts of the Body—the behind the scene gifts, along with the more out front gifts. When we traffic in the lane of our skill set, we have fewer relational wrecks and we are energized to go further faster. Diverse giftedness benefits everyone!
“But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other” (1 Corinthians 12:24-25).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I’m thankful for how You have gifted me and pray You surround me with those who complement my skill set.Application
How can I celebrate those who quietly serve behind the scenes with their unique giftedness?Related Reading
Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12:1-20; Ephesians 4:11-13; Hebrews 2:4Post/Tweet today
Engage experts in areas out of your expertise and you will become better at what you do best. #WisdomHunters #complementarygiftsWorship Resource
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