To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, each according to his ability. (Matt. 25:15)
Bethany came into my office with tears streaming down her face. “I am worthless. Why does everyone else have so many talents while I have none? It just isn’t fair. Why did God make me the way he did? I feel so useless!”
When I finally got her to stop sobbing, I asked her why she was feeling the way she was. She shared, “Andrea sings so beautifully, but I can’t sing at all. Brice is so articulate, but I get all tongue-tied when I speak. Nigel is a great athlete, and I trip over my feet while just walking. It’s so easy for Adrienna to get great grades, while I struggle to get Cs. Why didn’t God create me to be good at anything?”
After reading the parable of the talents to Bethany, I told her, “God has given each of us talents, and that includes you, Bethany. Discover what your talent is and then use it to glorify him.”
A few weeks later, I noticed Bethany on the platform in chapel with the worship team. During one of the songs she placed a violin under her chin and began playing. When her playing came to an end, the congregation broke out in applause. We were struck by how beautifully she had praised God by the way she made her violin sing.
Instead of comparing yourself with others, use the talent God gave you.
Jim Umf Lo is a professor at Indiana Wesleyan University, cross-cultural leader, intercessor, and author of several books published by Wesleyan Publishing House.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
