Monday, November 7, 2011

Be Yourself


It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to be someone I’m not. Writing like an author I admire. Or presenting like a Bible teacher I’ve studied under. There’s nothing wrong with admiring great character qualities of other people, but God made me unique – and that’s reason enough to shine for Him with the gifts and abilities He’s given me.

The story of David and Goliath is very familiar. Remember the details? David was the young shepherd boy, who had seven older brothers. Goliath was the Philistine giant who challenged the Israelites to a fight. David found himself in the midst of the Israelites’ camp, when his father sent him to check on his brothers who were part of the army.

The entire Israelite army cowered in fear of Goliath’s threats. His words were brash and bold, punctuated with blasphemy against the God of Israel. David couldn’t believe his ears. As he looked around, he couldn’t believe his eyes. One by one, the men in the army were retreating – taking shelter behind boulders and anything that would give them protection from this formidable enemy.

David knew the God of Israel could prevail. How dare this Philistine defy his God! David presented his case before King Saul: “Let no man’s heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine,” (1 Samuel 17:32; KJV). King Saul warned David of the enemy’s ability - pointing out the fact that Goliath was a skilled warrior, having fought in battles since he was young.

David’s confidence didn’t waiver, “The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the Lord be with thee,” (1 Samuel 17:32, 37; KJV).

Saul offered David his armor. David put on the helmet of brass and the coat of mail, girded his sword on his armor, and attempted to go. But something wasn’t right. The armor felt heavy and awkward. David had never worn armor before. Although it might be what the warriors wore, he knew it wasn’t right for him. He took off the protective gear, and exchanged it for what he was skilled at using: his shepherd’s staff, sling and pouch for stones.

Carefully selecting five smooth stones, David made his way toward Goliath. The giant thought this was some sort of Israelite joke, but David’s voice was strong and clear, “Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied…And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands,” (1 Samuel 17:45, 47).

With one, well-aimed stone, Goliath was killed, and the Philistine army was scattered. David chose to use the abilities God had honed in him, rather than the armor of the warriors. And God used David to win a mighty victory in Israel.

Although I may not have the same skills and abilities other great men and women of God possess, He has equipped me to magnify Him with the talents He’s given me. What an opportunity to develop those talents for His glory!

Do you wish you had someone else’s talents? Take time to praise the Lord for the way He’s equipped you to serve Him, and work on honing your skills today!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for allowing me to serve You. Help me to see that each person You’ve created has different talents and abilities. My job is to use what You’ve given me to bring You honor and glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.





17 comments:

  1. How true it is. . . there is only one me and only one you and so it goes. God certainly loves creating his children unique. Love your analogy of David.

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  2. Susan - Thanks so much for stopping by! It's easy to get caught up in comparisons, but God equipped each one who has trusted in Him, with the abilities He desires each to use to magnify Him. I'm so thankful for David's example - he didn't give in to the temptation to clothe himself the way other warriors were clothed. He chose to trust God to protect him, and used the weapon he was familiar with - a simple slingshot. With amazing results! What an awesome God we serve!

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  3. GREAT reminder, Maria! I love the prayer--it's something I should say every day to keep me grounded in who God wants me to be!

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  4. What a fabulous reminder, Maria. I'm guilty of trying to be like others, forgetting the only person I should strive to be like is Jesus.

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  5. Cheryl - Appreciate you stopping by! It's always a joy to read your comments. Have a blessed week, my friend! Hugs!

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  6. Joanne - Great to see you! You bring up a fantastic point - the only One we should each strive to be like is Jesus! God bless you!

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  7. One of my favorite stories - I actually carry a smooth stone with me to remember this...it's a lesson I often need to return to:)

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  8. Susan - Wonderful to have you stop by! What a neat idea - to carry a tangible reminder of this story with you. I'm sure it helps you to remember that God is able to slay even the largest 'giants' in your life! Have a beautiful week! God bless!

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  9. Love this post! i can safely say that I have learned to be content with myself :)

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  10. Maria, your post is so wonderful highlighting the power of ONE bestowed on each individual!A great read!!

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  11. Great reminder, Maria! I think everyone at one time or another struggle with wanting to be someone else, or like someone else! So glad we don't have to be. It's easier to just be me!

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  12. KC - Thanks so much for stopping by! Wonderful to hear that you're content with who God created you to be! Keep walking in His love, my friend! Have a blessed week! :)

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  13. Rahul - Welcome to Life Lessons! Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving a comment. I appreciate your words of encouragement, and consider it a privilege to share the truths of God's Word. Have a blessed day!

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  14. Jess - Hello! So true - I think we all struggle with this one. Surrendering to God's will for me and imitating His example is the way to go! Have a wonderfully blessed week!

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  15. Really good! I used to wish I was some great Bible teacher...but realize I was never gifted for that, but am gifted to be a good Bible leader. How freeing to know what gifts God has given you.

    Elaine
    http://elainepack.blogspot.com/

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  16. Great post, Maria! I'm not sure if I struggle with comparing talents, but I have struggled with things I didn't like about my personality. If only I was more social, or less outspoken (I know, a talkative, opinionated introvert!)...and sure, God needs to hep balance me out, but when I get discouraged, I remember God loved the "sons of thunder" and He loves me.

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  17. LOL! I often wished I could sing like Sandi Patty. Now, I'm content to make a joyful noise like Susan Reinhardt. :)

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