Page 60 - The Prosperous Way _ (APRIL 2024 v3)

THE PROSPEROUS WAY

The Scriptures tell us at Ecclesiastes 5:19 that when a man is able to be
happy in his work, this is a gift from God. It is when we begin to work
with the natural abilities that we will truly find fulfilment and success in
the things that we set our hands to do. This is beautifully illustrated in
Proverbs 31 where the wife of noble character who is described in that
poem eagerly selects flax and wool “and works with her hands in
delight” (Proverbs 31:13; NASB). She then sells the garments and sashes
that she makes to the merchants, and we are told that her trading is
profitable (Proverbs 31:18). If we follow our talents and natural God-
given abilities, we will not only find joy in our work, but I believe this will
also lead us along a way to prosperity and toward fulfilling our destiny.

DISCOVERING YOUR TALENTS

So then, do you know what gifts God has given you? Can you think of
things that you do so naturally that you hardly consider them to be
talents? Is it a facility with figures and facts? Is it writing or speaking well?
Are you skilled with your hands? Are you naturally curious and
inventive? What have people consistently told you over the years that
you excel at? What do you enjoy doing? What ignites your passion and
captivates your interest? What skills do you flow fluently in? Just as
important, do you know your personality type, and what work is best or
least suited to your temperament? In short, do you know who you truly,
uniquely are?

In the previous chapter, we talked about the fact that each of us is
“fearfully and wonderfully made.” Now it’s time to unearth the unique
creation that is you. So, pray and ask God to take you on a journey of
self-discovery as you seek to find answers to these questions, and to
identify your natural talents and abilities. Ask God to give you ideas and
revelation, and to open doors of opportunity to enable you to effectively
use your gifts, skills, and talents.

It may be that no immediate answers come in response to these prayers
and questions. Be patient and persevere in this journey of self-discovery.
And even when answers come, there may seem to be no easy way to
chart a new course, to seek out work or create wealth with the gifts that
are in you. So, you will need to be patient and persevere in praying and
in seeking open doors. Believe that as you trust God with all your heart,
and acknowledge Him in this, He will direct the course of the prosperous
way beneath your feet (Proverbs 3:5).

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