God-Given Abilities

 Each one of us is born into this world as a unique individual. We are as different as our fingerprints. It is amazing to think that God created a way for us all to be special in our own way. We have skills and talents passed down from our ancestors. Our physical appearance is passed down, but it is still unique. God is so good to do this for us. However, He also gives us other special abilities which we will need to fulfill His purpose for our life.

When Babylon took over Judah, the king ordered his officers to take the brightest of the young men captive and bring them to Babylon to be trained in the language and culture, so they could serve the king. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were among those taken. (Daniel 1:17) God gave all four knowledge  and skill in all literature and wisdom. He gave Daniel understanding in all visions and dreams. These God-given abilities were well suited for what God knew they were going to need to serve Him well.

God is still giving special abilities to His children. Once we are saved, God gives us spiritual gifts or grace gifts. These gifts are special abilities that are designed for us to be able to serve the Lord Jesus in a very unique way, based on what God has for us to do in our lives. We don't get to pick which abilities we get from the Lord. The Spirit gives us just what we need. Then, we have to take the gift and let the Spirit guide us and empower us to use God's gifts in His service.

Therefore, we have to be saved first. Then, we have to discern what gifts the Lord has given us by prayer and by asking other believers to tell us what God-given gifts they see us having. Remember, these are not just talents or skills. They are spiritual abilities, so we can do God's will. As we read the rest of the book of Daniel, we will see how Daniel's gifts were used to do God's will. I pray that will help each of us find out what gifts we have and how to use them well.

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Daniel 2-4.