Spiritual DNA
I saw this sign and couldn’t help but laugh. Of course, I thought about Cody who lives for the day when the gate is left open - ha.
It also made me think about our trips to the UK that we have taken. The cultural DNA differences between the English, Scottish and Irish are noticeable and interesting. To put it in dog perspective, if the gate were left open, the English would stay put and thoughtfully wonder why the tradition of the “closed gate” had been broken. A Scot would hesitantly go out of the gate and wait in the front yard for his master to come home (Bubba :-). The Irish would give no thought as to why the gate was open and immediately run out to go and say hello to everyone in the neighborhood. Maybe Cody is actually an “Irish” Cocker Spaniel…
“Living like the gate was left open” can be applied to life in many different ways - some of which wouldn’t be so good. Looking at it in a spiritual context, I think about how it feels when God is working through us in our areas of giftedness. We are not working from our own strength but are empowered by the Holy Spirit through our unique spiritual DNA. It’s a very freeing and powerful experience.
There are many reasons why understanding and using our gifts are so important:
We were created to do good works. As God’s workmanship, we are the tools He uses to transform lives.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
It provides direction and purpose for us. We find significance as we serve others in Kingdom work. Success = Doing what God created us to do.
Accountability: We want to be good stewards of our gifts.
Freedom to embrace who we are in Christ and the resulting joy from impacting lives.
“I’m not afraid of failure. I’m afraid of being successful at things that don’t really matter.” William Carey, missionary
Spiritual gifts are like muscles – they must be used. We exercise them through involvement in ministry and investing in other’s lives. We need to be willing to be intentional and take risks to find clarity about our gifts so that we have the freedom to say yes or no to ministry opportunities. We want to be empowered when we serve – not serve out of obligation or guilt.
Praying for guidance and seeking counsel from those who know and love you are great ways to find clarity about your giftedness. Ask yourself - what am I doing when I feel God’s pleasure? Your gifts and ministry will be nearby.
Stay Hungry,
Big E
Matt. 5:6