Have you ever taken one of the those Personality tests at work, where they identify your work styles? Or maybe a test that would help you to figure out what your spiritual gifts are? There are several on- line, and a multitude of books on the topic. I have. The results were about what I expected. A few surprises of course. The real rub for me comes in when I look at how I am using those gifts, or not using them as it may be. Some times, I find that even though a need (at school, at my church, in a small group) falls into my area of gifting, I don't step up. On the flip side, sometimes I step up, and step up, and step up, until I am over scheduled and stressed out. Sound familiar? I think the key is, to look at opportunities to volunteer, in your community, or in a ministry, and really hone in on the ones that are congruent with your gifts. Look at where you could have the most impact. If you are doing work that is congruent with your gifting, it shouldn't feel stressful, it should feel good I think. If you are taking on things outside of your gifting, then you'll feel stretched, stressed, and overwhelmed. On top of that, by taking on that role, you are denying someone who does have a gifting in that area, the opportunity to step up and contribute. As the school year wraps up, I am sure, like me, you are faced with planning for Fall already. I would encourage you to take a spiritual gifts test. Really think and pray about things before you step up and volunteer. But do step up. Use your gifts. I believe that spiritual gifts are a use it or lose it proposition. We have them for a purpose, and they are given with an expectation that we will use them for good. In the words of a friend of mine, who is entrenched in projects right now, "Even if someone would volunteer to set up the coffee and donuts for me, that would be HUGE!!". Sounds like a little thing, but each little thing adds up to accomplish a big thing.
I went to a cool women's networking meeting the other night. It was with an organization called Heartlink . It was at some one's house. An awesome dinner was served. Tables set, lovely hospitality, and about 20 very interesting women were there. We each got 3 minutes to introduce ourselves and tell a bit about our business's. Most of the women knew each other already. Many of the women present had business's that sell through direct marketing. Most of the big ones were represented, and a few new ones I had never heard of but found interesting. There were also women with other business's like insurance, legal services, printing, etc... It is great to meet like minded people, and I can definitely see the benefits of attending regularly. The bad part however, is it leaves you wanting to go shopping! All of a sudden, I MUST have the new mango cutter from Pampered Chef, and I am yearning to freshen up my candles, and I NEED a hole new wardrobe from CABi . ...
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