The Disappearing Act

give account of himself unto God. Romans 14:12

The great Houdini was an amazing man. Just mention his name and people remember his creative showmanship and trickery. He certainly lived on the edge and pushed himself to greater heights. Disappearing was his gift and he still stands as the best at it.

Unfortunately this disappearing act is something we as Christians use daily. Without realizing the effects in peoples lives we often let our spiritual gifts drop off the face of this earth.

What seems like sound decisions at the time can put our gifts on hold for months or years. As we selfishly chase everything that does not have God's name on it we eventually loose the very gift that was given to us to further the Kingdom.

I wish I could say I am merely speculating on this subject but I am not. I have been in this boat and it is not fun to float. I can tell you I did not write one word for Christ for ten years and it haunts me. I do know it is going to take some serious explaining on judgement day and I am not thrilled with the idea.

The purpose of our gifts is all about being other focused. For what good does it do to have the gift of teaching and just teach yourself? What use am I to have the gift of hospitality and never invite anyone over? If I show mercy to myself then who benefits?

The sequence of the slippage I have tried to document but to no avail. I just know I stopped using my gifts. The selfish thorns of life denied me from using my gifts. But the good news is I have a resolve, a dedication and a hunger like never before.

To fly as high as God wants me to I have to have a do it now mentality. I can no longer let my fleshly desires stand in my way. " And Abraham rose up early in the morning... and went unto the place which God had told him. ( v 3) Notice that it was not by Abraham's choice where he went. Oh to have a heart that is so weak in Christ that we are so willing, wanting and anxiously waiting to serve.

Hurry, take heed
it is time to take stock.
When we don't use our gifts
it is God that we mock.

Look in, then listen
Let's move with intent.
It is our gifts
from our Father
that were Heaven sent.

Brad McGill
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