Discover and Use Your Talents
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Read Mark 4:21–25
Reflection
A lamp those days meant a burning wick with oil or wax. It could be a hand-held holder, a table-top stand, or a lampstand that could be placed higher. The intent was to hold the burning candle steady and high enough to provide sufficient light for everyone. No one would place a burning candle under a cover. If that was done, it did not make sense to light it in the first place. Jesus used this analogy to teach His disciples that if anyone was given a certain talent, he had to make use of it for God’s glory, just as the fire was created to provide light, not for itself, but for others. As a person exercised his talents, he became more conversant and confident. His willingness to use his talents would spur him on to learn more skills. Hence, “to the one who has, more will be given”.
Corporate Leadership
In a company job, there is usually a term of reference that describes what a person has to do. However, it may constraint a person to that job only. He may have other inborn talents that are not discovered. Jesus gave the example of a lamp that gave light to everyone. It has to be positioned such that its light fills the room. Likewise, good leaders know their staff members well enough to also know their individual talents. Some of them could be good at organizing events, some can produce a good dish and some can tell a good joke. Such talents can enhance the cohesiveness of the company. It can raise the self-esteem of the staff and bring greater value to the team. Benjamin Franklin, an American statesman said, “Hide not your talents. They, for use, were made. What’s a sundial in the shade?” — XW
Family Leadership
As children grow up, parents like their children to learn other life skills besides their academic studies. For example, children can be exposed to music, pick up sports like swimming, football, learn to draw, engage in drama, and so on. Parents would never know what their children’s talents are until they experience it. However, if parents find that a child does not have an aptitude in any of these areas, then do not place undue pressure. Every child cannot be good in all but there will be one that he will take a natural liking to. Parent’s job then is to discover what their children’s talents are and encourage them to excel. The confidence they gain from their talents are opportunities for parents to praise them that will give them better self-esteem. Maya Angelou, an American poet said, “I believe that every person is born with talent.” — XW
Note: Develop Potential Early
