“Do not think I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Matthew 5:17
Years ago, a dear friend once shared a certain struggle: she was gifted in the arts and possessed a passion for them, but felt God calling her down another path for a career. She had family members who had paid for lessons, and sacrificed large amounts of their time to support her, telling her she ought to turn her passion into a career.
Oh, did she struggle with what to do. She so wanted to please her family, and use a God-given gift. She also knew, through months of prayer, that God did indeed have something different for her future.
She ended up following God’s leading for a career, and today pursues her art on the side.
How often to we wonder about God’s concern over seemingly insignificant nuances of daily life? Although in many way choosing a career can be life-altering, using a God-given gift for a career can hardly be labeled improper.
Yet, God does care about how we use our gifts. And He cares about how we spend our time.
Jesus knows how we feel when others place expectations on us, expectations which, although not bad in and of themselves, are not necessarily shared by God.
He said in Matthew 5:17, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
Jesus understood others misunderstood his mission. He clearly corrected the misconception with confidence and understanding compassion. Jesus knew what God was calling him to do. He also knew the peer pressure of wanting to please other people. Yet, he was not about to abandon His true calling, He was going to do what God created Him to do.
We all possess gifts, talents, and true callings. How are you using yours?
Reflections:
Monday: How can you apply Matthew 5:17 to your life today?
Tuesday: Think about a time you had a gift, or authority in a situation and someone wanted you to use that in a way you didn’t agree with. What made you uncomfortable? How did you resolve that inner conflict?
Wednesday: What is He calling you to do today? What is your mission? Do you feel you clearly understand it?
Thursday: If you have had a chance to read all the posts in this series, how are you feeling about the idea that Jesus can relate to our daily lives? Please feel free to share your opinions with me!
Friday: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for caring so deeply about me and my daily concerns. You came, not just to save our souls in the future, but to save us from ourselves today. You care about the seemingly simple choices we need to make today. Please help us to turn to you in our decision-making process and to trust Your leading, even when it seems counter-intuitive. Thank you for Your great love, Amen.
Bingo! Another “nail on the head” message sent from the Holy Spirit. TY Sis. I can see God’s hand at work in the area of my career placement as such a blessing for His purpose. I will share my testimony with you over tea-time. Yes………………….we are due again. Me :o)
So enjoy this weekly blog as it makes me think and lifts some of the questions of this life. TY for sharing your talents! Me :o)