Galasso: Be passionate about the life God has given you

I am reminded of the parable in the Bible in Matthew 25:14-28 that illustrates a great truth. The Parable of the Talents is about three servants. One servant was given five talents, another servant was provided with two talents, and the last was handed one talent.

Now, in those times, talents were equivalent to money. As the parable states, the first two men used their talents wisely, and their talents doubled. However, the third man was fearful, and buried his talent in the ground.



When I read this story, it caused me to wonder, how many of us hide our gifts behind the hurts of the past? Do we bury the pain, by partaking in unconstructive and unhealthy behaviors? Or are we concealing the great gifts that God has given to us, because we were told, at some point, we were “not good enough,” “not smart enough,” or “worthy enough,” to be full of joy and succeed? Don’t let anything or anyone steal your confidence, your hopes and dreams, or keep you from the divine purpose for which you were created. God’s word says: • “God has given gifts to each of you from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Manage them well so that God’s generosity can flow through you.

” 1 Peter 4:10. • “In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you.

” Romans 12:6. • “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord..

.” Colossians 3:23. • “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

” James 1:17. • “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” Romans 12:11.

Be passionate about the life that God has given to you. Don’t lose your enthusiasm. You may have been through tough times, disappointments, and have had some unfair setbacks, but there is still something more for you to achieve.

There are blessings, love and new joys ahead. You may have been pushed down for a time, yet, you are coming back up stronger than ever before. New doors are about to open.

A golden opportunity is going to break forth. Something great is on the verge of happening. So, stay productive; keep your goals in front of you, and thank God for this brand-new day and for your tremendous gifts and abilities.

Let today be the day that you release everything that has been pushing you down and begin to utilize the special abilities that God has generously given for His glory. Use your talents to benefit others in some way. Try sincerely complimenting people.

Each day, be determined to offer encouraging words to others. In the workplace, if someone is doing a good job, say, “Thank you for going above and beyond,” “I’m grateful for your great efforts,” “You’re doing fantastic,” and “You are an important part of this company.” People do not know what you are thinking, so at home tell your spouse, “You are a great role model,” “I appreciate your sacrifices for our family,” “I’m thankful for our strong relationship,” and “I love you.

” Express to your children, “I’m proud of you,” “You always try your best,” “You’re capable of great things,” and “God loves you.” And be there in times of need for friends, neighbors and even total strangers. We all need reassurance, encouragement and approval.

Persist in being good to people, and spreading love and joy to others. There is no limit to what you can accomplish for the good of mankind. It doesn’t matter where you have come from, what has happened in the past, or what your life has been.

Go forth with love and joy. Your future can be different than your yesterday. Today is a new day and with it comes a clean slate.

Therefore, delight in the newness of the pristine morning. Wake up and say, “Thank you, Lord. A new chapter begins today, and it is only the start of bringing you glory and wonderful things for my future.

” God has something great for you ...

the blessing is within your reach. It’s just a matter of time. So, step into the fullness of your destiny and let God guide you to be the best you can be.

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