Made to Be Used

Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:1-6

After church, Audra felt a tap on her shoulder. It was Mr. Lopez, the children’s music director, who had been sitting in front of Audra’s family during the service. “Audra,” he said, “I heard you singing during worship, and you have a beautiful voice! Would you be willing to sing in the kids’ choir during the Christmas program? We need more singers because some of our regular choir kids will be out of town.”

“I…I don’t think so,” Audra stammered. “I’m probably busy.” She gave Mr. Lopez a quick wave before darting toward her parents across the room.

When they got home, Audra told her mom what Mr. Lopez had said.

“Why not try it, Audra?” Mom said. “You do have a lovely voice.”

“But what if I forget the words or my voice cracks?” Audra replied.

“He didn’t ask you to sing a solo,” said Mom. “You’d be singing with other kids.”

“Yeah, but I don’t know any of the choir kids,” Audra said. “I’d feel weird.”

“Well, I’d hate to see you put your voice on a shelf,” Mom said as she started lunch. Audra was puzzled by her mom’s remark, but she didn’t ask for an explanation.

That evening, Audra put finishing touches on a scarf she was making to give her grandma for Christmas. Her mom had taught her how to knit, and the scarf had turned out well. “I think Grandma will like this, don’t you, Mom?” Audra asked.

“I’m sure she will. It’s very pretty,” Mom replied. “Do you think she’ll wear it? Or will she keep it up on a closet shelf and never let anyone see it?”

“Keep it on a shelf? I hope not! I made it for Grandma to wear, not to hide away.”

Mom nodded. “We give each other gifts so they can be used—and God gives us gifts for the same reason. We’re meant to use them to point others to Jesus.”

“So that’s what you meant when you said I shouldn’t put my voice on a shelf,” said Audra. “You meant I should use it.”

“It sounds like they could really use you in the Christmas program,” said Mom. “You could use your voice to help our church celebrate God’s greatest gift of all—Jesus.”

Audra nodded. “Okay. I’ll tell Mr. Lopez I’ll sing.”

-Jan L. Hansen

How About You?

Have your ever discovered someone didn’t use a gift you had given them? How about the gifts God has given you? Do you use them? Or are you too busy or scared—or maybe you just don’t feel like it? Don’t put the talents God has given you on a shelf. Use them to point people to the wonderful gift God gave the whole world—the gift of His Son, Jesus.

Today’s Key Verse: 1 Timothy 4:14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Use your talents for God