Photography by Elise Anthony
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies— in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To Him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen“
1 Peter 4:10-11 ESV
Every morning as the rising sun peeked through the pine trees and oil derricks of East Texas, I had a good companion in Steven Curtis Chapman, whose music dominated Christian radio at the time.
The lyrics to The Great Adventure energized me as I drove to college and pursued my calling to be a writer. Chapman GETS it. As I sang, “come on, get ready for the ride of your life,” I was living in the moment. Being 19, I didn’t have a full appreciation for journey ahead.
Logically, I pursued my writing “adventure” semester by semester and then year after year professionally, but certainly not spiritually. It took me a few decades to finally understand that surrendering to the Lord for His purpose, not mine, is a far greater adventure.
Exploring Your Spiritual Gifts
As Christians, we are each called to serve according to our gifts. Yet, we don’t always know how.
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV
Today, I know that I’m creatively called to encourage others. That may be through writing or it may simply be a smile at the sanctuary door. You may even see me blow bubbles. In church.
If you’re not sure of your calling or how to use it, you’re not alone, my friend.
Ask Other Christians
As you earnestly pray and study the Word, ask those closest to you — what gifts do I bring and what do you believe my calling is? Do their answers surprise you? What is God saying to you?
Pray And Reflect
Lord, with a willing heart, I’m eager to answer your call. What you have destined for me, I embrace. Holy Spirit, please surround me with your presence and guide my heart, hands, words, thoughts, and actions to honor and serve.
Praise And Worship
For The Sake of The Call and The Great Adventure by Steven Curtis Chapman
Study and Journal
How does my calling glorify God? 1 Peter 4:10-11 ESV
— Elise