Viewpoint and Vision

In a previous post, I began exploring a book by pastor/author Craig Groeschel, Chazown:  A Different Way To See Your Life (2006).  On Groundhog Day, we considered what might become our epitaphs, beginning with the end in mind.  Next, we introduced the three circles:  core values, spiritual gifts, and past experiences.  The convergence of these overlapping circles is likely to reveal the chazown, or vision for the remainder of one's days.  Core values were contemplated, and now we'll look at spiritual gifts.

Image source:  https://www.changeview.org/3-powerful-steps-to-find-vision/

There are gifts in my living room, still wrapped in Christmas gift paper, bows attached, just resting there around my little Christmas tree.  Yes, I know it's February; but the intended recipient of the gifts has been overwhelmed at work and it's delayed our gift exchange to nearly Valentine's Day.  I don't mind the wee tree there with its Peanuts-cartoon-themed ornaments still in place; but as I consider gifts, it's the moment of transfer that makes the actual gifting valid.  Also, I am excited just imagining his reaction when the wrapping falls away from each item, carefully curated just for him. 

We must realize and actively receive most gifts, and I imagine God's delight when we are finally on the precipice of pursuing the reasons those gifts are chosen specifically for each of us.  Until we utilize them, they are merely latent talents, and many will actually atrophy for lack of use - use it or lose it, as they say.  The talents in Matthew 25;14-30, Jesus' parable of the talents, are a form of currency; but I think it is fitting that Jesus used the particular measure of wealth that He knew would eventually show up in English translations with the same word, talent.

We are uniquely equipped to fulfill the vision for which we were created.  Romans 12:6-8 lists a few of these spiritual gifts, stressing the imperative to use them.  They come straight from God, almost like a form of software that must be activated.  1 Peter 4:10-11 again admonishes believers must use their gifts, adding that they will benefit others as well as glorify God and draw others to Him.  1 Corinthians 12 & 13 further explain this giftedness and the appropriate attitude with which to employ them, with love.  Your awareness and application of your artistry, prowess, interests, and areas of strength will yield great insight as to your own chazown.

Jotting with Johnna:

• Do you know your primary spiritual gifts?  There are many spiritual gift inventory lists and quizzes, including one on the Chazown program website.  
• What do you enjoy and look forward to doing?
• What do you do that seems to significantly impact those around you?
• What do you believe in your heart you can do but haven't attempted yet?
• What gifts do you have that you're not currently putting to use?

Remember: 
You are gifted with something that can change the world, whether on a local or global scale; but the gifts you have are not meant to remain wrapped and tucked away in a corner of your life.  Rip open the package and look for ways to utilize each gift as only you are able.  The world is waiting for what you have to offer!

Stay tuned.  Stay focused.  Stay well.