The Ability Which God Giveth

From Zone conference a couple weeks back  (photo: mision chile concepcion blogpost)

A Good Week
Oh, sure, we had the ups and downs of scheduled and cancelled appointments, progressing and non-progressing investigators, energy ups and downs.  But by the end of the week, we added a numbers of new people to our teaching pool, we had investigators at church on Sunday, and one of our families set a date for baptism.

Tuesday, in particular, was a miraculous day, as far as missionary work goes. We found a handful of new people who are interested in our message, and we had nine lessons with a member present. That's a pretty great day.  We were even able to do a small service project - cleaning up the church grounds.

me, Elders Hershberger, Arismendiz, and Portillo ready for church clean-up (well, Hershberger will be ready in a minute)

The Ability Which God Giveth
Since Zone Conference, I have been thinking about the differences between the previous mission president and our current one, and how each had his own unique abilities he brought to this mission.
I've also thought of how each missionary carries his/her own set of talents and gifts we bring to this work.

When we are given a call to serve, God calls, not just the person to the work, he summons those gifts as well.

"If any man minister,

let him do it as of the ability which God giveth,

that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ."

1 Peter 4:11

When God gives an assignment, he also gives a skill "to every man according to his several ability" (Matt 25:15).  His intent is to use our experience and creativity and gifts and uniqueness - to share His Light. As He calls, He equips.  As He equips, He calls.

What are your abilities?  We all have something.  Look back over your life. What have you consistently done well?  What have you loved to do?  Stand at the junction of your affections and successes and - boom - find your uniqueness.  Don't worry about skills you don't have.  Don't covet strengths others do have.  Just bring out your own exclusively-you.

"Stir up the gift of God which is in thee."

2 Timothy 1:6

Stir it Up
What I've learned is this: When you magnify Christ with your strengths, when your contribution enriches God's Plan, your days grow suddenly sweet.  So let's stir it up!

I don't know why everyone gives the-thumbs-up when a picture is taken here.
Sorry, I got caught up.

Here's Wishing Us All a Sweet Week,
Elder Connor Nef