Of course, looking retrospectively, I know that fear was totally unfounded. Yet, it was very real for me back then. Oddly, I got no comfort from the fact that I had graduated college with a Degree in English (Though whether or not you have a Degree doesn't matter when you're called); I still figured there had to be some "secret rules" I wasn't privy to when it came to writing. Consequently, I kept imagining that I would do a horrible job and that my client would be angry and demand a refund.
So, what did I do?
I bought up a bunch of over-priced books, invested in editing software and drove myself crazy over the whole thing... none of which I needed to do. At the time, however, I didn't have much confidence or faith in the ability the Lord had given me.
The problem was my lack of confidence, not my lack of capability.
Thankfully, with prayer, perseverance and the passage of time, I got over that mental hurdle that was holding me back from walking in my calling.
I wonder; can you relate to that? Is there some area you know you're called to, but you allow the enemy to play with your mind and make you think you might not be fully capable? If so, we're claiming victory over that today.
You know why? Because, unless you own your gift, you'll never fully maximize or exercise it. And if you don't exercise it, God can never use it to get glory out of your life.
Listen. In order to be a leader in God's Kingdom, you must have confidence in your God-given ability to fill the shoes He has commissioned you to walk in. If you fail to believe that you are both equipped and capable of carrying out the unique role God has hand-picked you for, there's no way you can be effective. That's why the enemy works so hard to keep you second-guessing yourself and doubting your abilities. He knows that, if you ever get a true revelation of who you really are and begin walking in that, you'll be a powerful tool in the kingdom of God and a terror to the Kingdom of darkness.
Right now, as you prepare to enter into 2010, I want you to make sure you own your gift... each and every one God has planted inside of you. Know that, you're anointed to thrive in your unique area of operation... whatever that may be. You may be: A writer, lawyer, accountant, teacher, designer, engineer, singer, some type ministry leader, business executive, a combination of these, or something altogether different and special. No matter what field you're in, there's something you have to remember:
"You can excel in any profession, as long as the profession of your faith is authentic and unwavering."
Once again, own your gift. Tell yourself, I can do all things through Christ. Remind yourself that God Almighty has planted a seed of greatness in you and you're fully equipped to do and be all He has destined for you to do and be, even before the foundation of the world!
As always, thanks for reading and until next time... may you be empowered to prosper!
Dianna Hobbs
