How can we find our Passions and Talents?
What were we created to do?
We are so uniquely and wonderfully created; how can we maximize what God has given to us for His Glory?
Each one of us has been given abilities and gifts. It seems that many don't know what they are. Before God we will not be responsible for what talents or gifts we don't have, but we are responsible for those we do have. (There are many free 'Gift analysis' questionnaires on line...this will certainly add to the picture you can build of your passions). Our gifts and talents are locked within what we are passionate about.
Answering these questions below will empower you and lead you towards the following:
- You will know how you are wired up and what to do with the one life God has given you.
- You will know what to focus on and what NOT to. You will know what to say YES to and what to say NO to. For example, if you are passionate about public speaking or hospitality, you'll be more motivated to study this subject in depth and become even more skilled.
- You will be able to pray specifically for the talents God has given you, finding creative ways to use them.
- Finding your passions will lead you to better understand your gifts & talents.
- You will better understand yourself, which is always helpful.
- Answering the questions below will enable you to become more productive.
- If you work in your passions you will enjoy what you are doing much more. Even the difficult things will be OK for you can see the end result.
4 easy Steps in answering these questions.
Step 1. Begin to pray specifically about what God might be saying to you through this process.
Step 2. Take time to think and answer the questions. This is not a one day thing...take a couple of months over it.
Step 3. It helps to write answers in a small notebook that you go to every day or two and add to what you have written. A picture will begin to form of your passions and even your talents.
Step 4. Ask respected peers and those in leadership over you "what do you see me passionate about?", and "What do you see are my talents or gifts?" Again note the answers down. Writing clarifies and un-clutters thoughts.
Here are the questions:
1. If you could mobilize the masses, what would you do?
2. If someone gave you unlimited finances and resources, what would you do?
3. What do think about all the time?
4. What do you care deeply about? (Your treasures / your values).
5. What would you do if you knew you could not fail?
6. What do you believe God wants you to do?
7. If you could snap your fingers to get something done, what would happen?
8. What absorbs you and captures your attention?
9. What things are you committed to?
10. Slogans and Creeds?
11. What have you achieved with competence or success?
12. Where do you belong? (A large city, small town, medium sized City, the country...?)
13. Are there any should's that have trailed you?
14. What is ministry for you?
15. What are the events and situations of the past that have ignited good feelings in you?
Enjoy...remember it's a journey. God has wired you up a certain way. May this serve you so you are able to find your passions and envision His dreams for your life...so all Glory goes to Him.
