Use what He gave you!

“I have yet to speak on God’s behalf.”
- Job 36:2

[A devotional by Charles Spurgeon]

A very good devotional for Christians. I thought it would be interesting to read this and comment on it a few sentences at a time. First I thought how Christianity hasn't changed over the years. From the days of Charles Spurgeon, to the days of Ed Shagott, what is important is to get your eyes off yourself and on God for the good of others. "This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine! Hide it under a bushel no!

[We ought not to court publicity for our virtue, or notoriety for our zeal; but, at the same time, it is a sin to be always seeking to hide that which God has bestowed upon us for the good of others. A Christian is not to be a village in a valley, but “a city set upon a hill;” he is not to be a candle under a bushel, but a candle in a candlestick, giving light to all.]

Now this next few sentences Charles Spurgeon mentions retirement. This is something I can relate to and also what he says we should do, I do! I do it for Christ. My friends, I have retired in Him!

[Retirement may be lovely in its season, and to hide one’s self is doubtless modest, but the hiding of Christ in us can never be justified, and the keeping back of truth which is precious to ourselves is a sin against others and an offence against God. If you are of a nervous temperament and of retiring disposition, take care that you do not too much indulge this trembling propensity, lest you should be useless to the church. Seek in the name of him who was not ashamed of you to do some little violence to your feelings, and tell to others what Christ has told to you.]

The other day I, and a few church family, men of God, got together for breakfast. I was not aware that one of the true reasons we were there was to talk about "Evangelism". But let me say right now, maybe my tongue is not like a trumpet, but more like a beating drum. My words, deeds, my being is about Jesus!

[If thou canst not speak with trumpet tongue, use the still small voice. If the pulpit must not be thy tribune, if the press may not carry on its wings thy words, yet say with Peter and John, “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee.” By Sychar’s well talk to the Samaritan woman, if thou canst not on the mountain preach a sermon; utter the praises of Jesus in the house, if not in the temple; in the field, if not upon the exchange; in the midst of thine own household, if thou canst not in the midst of the great family of man. From the hidden springs within let sweetly flowing rivulets of testimony flow forth, giving drink to every passer-by.]

For many years I didn't realize I had any talents. It was not until I released my life to Him, that I understood He was molding these talents within me, that now come pouring out for Him, almost uncontrollably. Yes, it is the Lord that releases our tongues so the Holy Spirit can talk for us.

[Hide not thy talent; trade with it; and thou shalt bring in good interest to thy Lord and Master. To speak for God will be refreshing to ourselves, cheering to saints, useful to sinners, and honouring to the Saviour. Dumb children are an affliction to their parents. Lord, unloose all thy children’s tongue.]

Talent

A talent is something each of us has,
but to discover it is the trick.
Don't be afraid to try something new
for this might be what it is.

And once you realize you have it,
not to use it is a shame.
The good Lord has a reason for giving us this,
that only he will be able to explain.

So when we meet our maker
and he asks how we did,
he'll also ask if we used what he gave us
for a talent is a special gift.

Be grateful when you find it
and use it the best each day.
Remember to thank the Lord above,
making you special in this way.

E. P. Shagott

From God's heart, to mine, to yours,
Ed Shagott