2 Samuel 11:1 (in part) And it came to pass, after the year was expired, at the time when kings go forth to battle. … But David tarried still at Jerusalem.
When kings go forth…. Where was David? He was on the rooftop looking down on Bathsheba. For me this is more than about David’s coming sins. This was David not being the king in that moment. He had a role, he had responsibilities, and he failed to do what was expected of him. David was king. His identity was well established. His role and responsibilities well defined. What about the rest of us?
Do you know who you are in Christ? I do. My gifts have been identified, my role is clear. No matter how I respond to the needs of the church, those gifts and responsibilities do not change. There are times when I see a church need and I am willing to step up and say “Here I am, what do you need?” While my fellow workers appreciate the help, for the task is too great for the few who organize the effort, some are acting outside their gifts.
I can only suggest that this happens because some do not know who they are in Christ. That does not mean they are not saved. That does not mean they are slothful. It only means they have not yet met their full potential.
Judges 6:36-37 And Gideon said unto God, If thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said, Behold, I will put a fleece of wool in the floor; and if the dew be on the fleece only, and it be dry upon all the earth beside, then shall I know that thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said.
Gideon did not doubt God, he doubted himself and was asking “Prove me!” Will you?
Psalm 26:2 Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
I loved your post this morning. One part of your challenge is “are we living up to our potential?” I, too, know who I am in Christ and what my gift is (gifts are). I, however, find that there are times that circumstances prevent me from using those gifts. Also, like king David, I have been “side tracked” at times. One great encouragement to me is that “He remains faithful” and that keeps me from getting discouraged. Your post this morning about IDENTITY has, to me, a root in John 15:4&5. To ABIDE in the Vine, our Lord Jesus Christ, assures me of my identity and gives me peace when circumstances prevent me from living up to my potential, because I find that HE has allowed those circumstances. I am so thankful that you are using the gift that the Lord has given to you and for this blog site that provides for a full potential of this gift…..truly a rich blessing to many readers.