Working in your Strengths

38 Then Saul gave David his own armor—a bronze helmet and a coat of mail.39 David put it on, strapped the sword over it, and took a step or two to see what it was like, for he had never worn such things before. “I can’t go in these,” he protested to Saul. “I’m not used to them.” So David took them off again.40 He picked up five smooth stones from a stream and put them into his shepherd’s bag. Then, armed only with his shepherd’s staff and sling, he started across the valley to fight the Philistine.

1 Samuel 17:38-40 (NLT)

We often in our walks with Christ take on responsibilities that we are not called or equipped to do. In doing these things we are actually bringing trouble and discord to the church and to the body of Christ. As David was preparing to go forth into battle we see Saul had tried to provide him with the best equipment to fight with. The problem was it was not a good fit for what David new and understood about Himself. We often do this very same thing when it comes to our service to God. It is alright to try something if you are unsure if it is something God is calling you too. David did try on Saul’s armor after all; but we must know ourselves well enough to see that it does not fit our personalities.  David could have gone to battle in Saul’s armor but he likely would only have gotten killed. Instead he chose to go in what God had provided to him; his own God given abilities and strengths. Had he gone with the armor of Saul on it would also have diminished the Glory that was God’s for delivering Goliath into David’s hands. You see David knew that God had called him to this very time and place and would bring him the victory. Goliath had been makking this boast and challenge for 40 days before David came to the camp. David knew God would protect him just had He had in the past as he faced the lions and bears.  But David also understood what his gifting was and how best to serve His God and Israeli. Today are you wearing someone else’s armor? Is the job you are trying to fulfill in church not bringing satisfaction to your life? If so maybe it’s time to look at what your strengths are and begin looking for what God is doing that your strengths can be used in. Then go and work in what God has gifted you for. The rewards are greater than you will ever know and God’s kingdom will grow as we work in our giftedness. I pray God shows you what He has for you to do as you walk in the light of God’s word.