Have you ever asked for something, received it, and forgot you asked?

I think that is a terrible way to treat someone that gives you a gift.  I did it though, to the Lord. I asked God to bless me with the talent of playing the guitar.  It has been a desire of mine, for most of my adult life.

Ungratefully, I haven’t acting on it with the fervor of someone who really wanted it until the pandemic and my wife’s illness. I could have been so much better by now if I had acted earlier. 

I don’t know when I actually prayed about it -it was so long ago. I thank God for it now though almost every night. In hindsight, it was probably when I was pastoring.  During that time, I received an American Stratocaster in exchange for a .45 caliber pistol I received in trade. 

Now, I am writing to remember and remind myself of my blessings.  Here’s four ways to bless God with His gift to you.

1.  Use Your Talents to Serve Others: Many believe that by using their abilities to help others, they are honoring God. This could be through volunteer work, mentoring, or any form of service that benefits the community.

Proverbs 11:25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.

2.  Develop Your Talents: Continuously improving and mastering your skills can be seen as a form of stewardship of the gifts you've been given.

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: 1 Peter 4:10 -

3.  Incorporate Faith into Your Work: Whatever your field or talent, you can integrate your faith or values into your work, creating a sense of purpose that aligns with your spiritual beliefs.

…and whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.  Colossians 3:23-24 KJV

4.  Prayer and Intention: Setting a clear intention or prayer that your work and talent be used in a way that is pleasing to God can be a form of dedication.

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Phil 4:6

5.  Give Back: Donating a portion of the proceeds from your talent-related work to causes you believe in can be another way to dedicate your talent.

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed. Proverbs 22:9