Pick up your Mat

Have you ever watched a professional singer and confidently understood how they developed their remarkable singing ability? You recognize the extraordinary talent bestowed upon them. Instead of comparing yourself and questioning your own purpose, realize that you too have a unique path. It's not about lacking talent or divine favor; it's about embracing and utilizing the gift you have been given. The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 illustrates this beautifully. The Master entrusted each servant with talents according to their ability, showing that everyone receives a gift meant for them. This demonstrates that God knows exactly what we can handle and what we are meant to achieve for His glory. Embrace and be thankful for the gifts you have received, rather than aspiring to be something you were never meant to be.

Pleasing God excites us deeply, but it's crucial not to overlook how we should glorify Him. We often focus on doing everything for Him and may neglect our relationship with Him. While we are indeed called to serve Him, the most vital aspect of serving the Savior is cultivating a personal relationship with Him. This involves praying, engaging with His word, and aligning our mindset with His will. Discipline and determination that grows from knowing the Father deeper undoubtedly stem from a place of love. The more profound our love for God, the more we embrace being shaped into who He has called us to be. Often, we are our own biggest obstacle, hindering the potential God knows lies within us, all due to fear or pride.

The saying "if you don't use it, you lose it" applies to the abilities God grants us. On judgment day, God will evaluate how we utilized the talents He gave us to spread His word and disciple others. If we have used His blessings well, He will be pleased. If not, we will be eternally separated from Him and lose what He generously provided. My ultimate goal in everything I pursue is to ensure that God is pleased and glorified. Everything I write and do is for Him, through Him, and by Him. On my own, I achieve little, if anything. Each of us is called to fulfill a purpose for Him. If you're unsure of your abilities, begin by seeking guidance through prayer. Ask God to reveal your gifts and be ready for the answer. It might initially seem minor or unappealing, but it's essential to align your mindset with His will. God makes no mistakes and understands exactly how we are meant to glorify Him. We are all tasked with spreading His word and guiding others, a mission known as the Great Commission, as outlined in Matthew 28:18-20.

Those who faithfully serve God will undoubtedly be rewarded. By aligning our mindset with God's desires for us, we gain the profound freedom of understanding that He is in complete control. Fully embracing this concept transforms us to become more Christ-like, as evident in the fruits we produce. (John 15:5) An inspiring example of living with the hope of Christ is illustrated in John 5:1-17. In this story, a man who had been crippled for 38 years lay close to healing. Despite the seemingly insurmountable barrier, he never succumbed to despair. When the moment came, he immediately picked up his mat and walked. This demonstrates that he never lost hope despite years of being told "no." He acted without overanalyzing God's command or doubting its possibility. The faith exemplified by this man is remarkable, as he fully surrendered to Jesus' words, leading to his healing. By his faith, he was healed.

Often, we become preoccupied with how we should serve God, envisioning it through our sanctified imagination, which can lead to overthinking and ultimately achieving nothing. We become entangled in the rules we allow ourselves to believe. Jesus healed a man on a Sunday, a day considered holy and rightly so, yet God is always at work, as was Jesus. We assume that if something is outside the norm or our comfort zone, it isn't our calling. We tend to believe we should do "more" or sometimes "less." Unlike Jesus, who acted according to the Master's will, we often mix in our own beliefs. This can hinder or completely halt our service. Conversely, we might engage in activities not meant for us, missing the blessing amidst our self-satisfying work.

God is in complete control. When we surrender and trust Him to guide our lives, we fully glorify Him. He empowers us to do His work for His glory. Our service to God is entirely for Him, not for us. We often let our emotions interfere with His plans for us. True change occurs when we align our actions with God's desires. Many believe they are uniquely tasked by God, as if He needs them to fulfill His purpose. In reality, God doesn't need us; His work is already accomplished, and the battle is won. God invites us to join His mission to save humanity, offering us the blessing of being used by Him. The focus is on Him, not us. When we allow God to take control and align our mindset with His will, our relationship with Him deepens. The more you love Him, the more you can serve Him. The question is are you prepared to take up your mat when He tells you to walk?

Wrote by Hannah Austin

5/31/25 @ 11:47 am