Day 55 - Don't accept man's words

For the better part of my life I have struggled to find my purpose and how to use gifts and talents for the kingdom.  One thing I for sure was I could sing.  I was in choir from a very early age and all through my school years.  I didn't excel in high school as much as I would have liked because I couldn't sight read music.  Still can't.  Unless I have heard the melody at least once I can't "cold sing."

But the most damaging thing happened when I was in a church praise team. The music leader decided to make two teams for the various services.  He called a meeting and then proceeded to divide singers into the two teams.  I was only sad that I might not be singing with my best friend.  It never occurred to me and I was not prepared for, "Sorry but we don't need you on either team.  I was shocked.  This was not happening.

Have you ever been in this spot?  Maybe it wasn't singing but it was something you knew God had gifted you to do. Did it take the wind out of your sails?  Like someone knocking the air from your lungs?

That event so scarred me that to date I have not sang in an organized group since. It hurt my heart so badly and I chose to believe the words of a man over the gift from God.  It wasn't till I was in prayer today that it dawned on me that I must believe in God's directive, His report, the leading of the Holy Spirit.  God did not give me gifts to just toss aside because a man said so.  Part of my healing in this 'broken' area of my life has everything to do with using what God has already given.

Lord, I thank you that the gifts and talents You dispense to your people.  They are forever.  They are not given and then re-trackded.  They are meant to be used.  I choose to correct this and look for opportunities to use my talents for Your glory.  Amen

As the embers fade and the campfire grows cold I am eager to continue along the path.  I am thankful for the song in my heart and the voice to sing it.  It feels great to be in His hands.  I hear a tune in my heart and it goes like this, "The hills are alive, with the sound of music....."  With not another person in sight I belt it out as I twirl and pretend for a moment.