Are you living up to your potential? This world needs you.
More than ever, this generation needs men and women to step up to that which they have been called.
“…who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began…” (2 Timothy 1:9)
Currently, I find myself steeped deep into the book of 2 Timothy. It is Paul’s “handing of the baton”, so to speak, to the young disciple Timothy. You can see the words of endearment leap off the page as the ruddy, tough, and mighty apostle Paul refers to the young lad as “my beloved child.” Certainly, there is a sweet disposition of endearment coming from the experienced mentor.
I feel like in this first chapter we see a softer side of Paul. A fatherly figure who sincerely yearns to see his son “step up” to become that which he was made for. For instance, you can hear the tone as you turn the page. The restless nights. The faithful prayers.
I believe in you. I know you can.
Paul recants the precious memories in his mind…a sincere faith that he sees instilled in Timothy as a young man. And then we see a nudge…a push…a challenge if you will,
“Fan into flame the gift of God…for God gave us a spirit not of fear but or power and love and self-control” (v. 7).
It’s here where the words of this text come leaping off the page. God is speaking to me and YOU…let’s fan the flame of the voice of God in our own lives. Incline our ears to hear what He is speaking to us today. Become people who unashamedly pursue after God with a heart of zeal.
Now is the time.
Of course, this world needs us to step up into our call. Our creative passion. Inner drive. Obedient hearts. Compassionate souls. God of the universe created you with great purpose and intention. Let this fuel your potential.
And yet, inwardly we shriek back and settle for second best. It is sometimes easier to cower in fear and listen to the lie. You’re not good enough. Your past is too messy. You’re too young…or possibly too old. You don’t have the experience. There’s someone more talented or qualified than you. You most certainly will fail.
However, what if we stop listening to the lie and instead intently listen to the voice of God, who has orchestrated a greater plan. Certainly, God can do anything! And if He can do anything, He can use you to do anything too!
“Authenticity. It is all about peeling back all the layers to discover what you were created for. It’s about letting yourself be truly loved and fully known.” –Joanna Gaines
Discovering what you are made for is part of the precious journey with God. It may not be readily apparent. And it may take years to unfold. But tune in and listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit because He has made you for something more. You have great potential!
What have you been made for? What is holding you back from becoming?