Discovering and Using Our God-Given Abilities

Have you ever found yourself asking, “God, what is my purpose? What are the abilities You’ve given me? Am I using them to glorify You?” These are some of the questions that arose in my heart recently when I fell ill. It wasn’t just the sickness that troubled me—it was the realization of how fragile and fleeting our abilities can be.

After months of battling a persistent cough, I lost my voice for a week. In that moment, I was overwhelmed with worry. I asked myself: Will I be able to sing again? Will I be able to read the Bible aloud? Will I be able to pray boldly? But amidst my fears, one question stood out above the rest: Have I used my abilities to glorify God?

I attend church every Sunday. I sing along to worship songs at home. Yet, I’ve always held myself back when it came to singing in public. Why? Growing up, I was told my voice was too rough, that I needed to soften it, that I didn’t sing well. Those words stayed with me. Instead of brushing them off, I let them define me. I shied away from opportunities, too afraid to confront those fears or to work on my gift.

Now, looking back, I wonder why I let those negative voices win. The years have slipped away, and I feel as though I’ve missed countless chances to use my voice for God. Yet, I am reminded of a powerful truth: God is a redeemer of time.

In Matthew 25:14-15, Jesus tells the parable of the talents:
"For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.

This parable reminds us that God has entrusted each of us with unique abilities. No one is without a gift or a purpose. Perhaps singing is my talent, but fear and doubt have held me back. If that’s the case, why am I still reluctant to sing in church?

As I reflect on this, I find hope in God’s patience and grace. He has been with me all these years, gently nudging me to step out in faith. And I believe He will give me the wisdom and courage to understand and use my abilities at the right time.

So, to anyone reading this who feels as I do—uncertain of their abilities or weighed down by past failures—let this be a reminder that it’s never too late to start. Ask God to reveal your gifts and trust Him to help you use them for His glory.

If singing is your ability, sing boldly. If teaching is your calling, teach faithfully. Whatever your talent may be, offer it back to God, for He is the One who gave it to you.

Let us not bury our talents out of fear or doubt. Instead, let us rise up and use them to build His Kingdom, knowing that He is with us every step of the way. The time we have left may be short, but with God’s help, it can be purposeful.

“Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31