More often than not, when I sit down to write a post, I have an idea of what it is I want to say. Then there are times like right now when I feel the nudge to write, but have no idea where my words will take me. It is always my prayer that I am able to communicate whatever God needs of me. I am uncomfortable with compliments on my writing because I never want it to be about me. It is solely through the power and blessings of the Lord that any of these words come together on the page, and I am very wary of any temptation to think otherwise.

Writing is something that has always come second nature to me, though my grammar and spelling may not always be technically proper. My first degree was in English Literature, with a minor in performing arts. My involvement in medicine came much later, first on the administrative side of things, eventually shifting into direct patient care. I started out as a combat medic, and from there chose to pursue nursing.

Here I am, ten years later, and my focus is shifting back towards my first love… writing. I have always wanted to help and love people in any way I can, and it’s been my sister who encouraged me to use my writing towards that goal. Now it’s my husband who continues that encouragement, frequently telling me he believes God is using my writing to bless others and bring them closer to God.

Something I’ve been pondering the last couple of days is how to be sure I’m putting God first in my life. We talk about the importance of doing that, but how do we know when we are actually succeeding? I’ve spoken a number of times about the words of wisdom that come from our pastor on Sundays, and today was no exception.

He spoke of brokenness…of feeling spiritually desolate and empty, and the importance of being able to turn to God and trust Him, even more in those times than in times of spiritual plenty. I wanted to ask aloud, right in the middle of the service, “How do I know I’m truly trusting God?? How do I know I’m putting Him first?? How do I lay my broken pieces at His feet and allow Him to make something better and more beautiful out of them??” I’m sure my husband and best friend would’ve been grateful I was able to hold my tongue if they’d known how tempted I was to pop up and voice my questions!

We all have gifts to offer the world, and I know firsthand that God puts a love in our souls for the gifts He’s given us. He wants us to grow and develop these gifts, as they are meant to be shared. They aren’t just gifts for us, they are gifts for those around us, as well. What good is my writing if nobody but me gets to read it? What good are the amazing voices within our choir if they’re not lifted aloud in worship, carrying the Spirit of the Lord out to the rest of our church family?

Whatever gifts you’ve been given, use them! Don’t hide them or run from them, but embrace them and nurture them and allow God to use them for His purposes! And no matter what, DO NOT compare your gifts to those of someone else, as God intentionally created us to be different from others, not the same. Imagine if the choir all sang every song in unison…same notes, beginning to end, every single song. Boooooring!! It’s the differences that make it beautiful. The various parts working in harmony with one another create depth and character that is truly incredible to experience, both as a singer and spectator. Fight for harmony in your life. Find your God-given gifts, and then USE THEM!!!