Truth is, I've always struggled with mediocrity. It has plagued me my whole life. Mediocre in school, looks, talent, effort, etc.
The average-ness is astounding really. I’m a so-so cook and only so-so at exercise. I’m sometimes good at parenting and sometimes good at being a wife. I’ve tested average intelligence. I’m decent at games. I’m somewhat athletic. Always *this* close.
Looking back, I somehow even used my average-ness to think I was superior to others. Certainly nothing I would have admitted out loud but glaringly obvious in hindsight.
I’m not telling you all this to be self deprecating. Here’s the truth of it - I’m coming to realize that all of my average was a true gift from God, for surely, if I had actually been great at any one thing, I would have no need to bend the knee to God - or even needing a Savior for I would have been my own Savior. In keeping me from being great, He saved me from building a life around my own self.
See the parable of the talents!
Instead I find myself aware of my brokenness and failings and also all the more in awe of God’s astounding love and grace to stay with me, love me, and use me.
I learned in BSF (Bible Study Fellowship), that in the end, God, not any human being, is the hero of the Bible, and the hero in our own stories. (2 Chronicles 20:35-37) Not us. Thank you, Lord!
So what are we to do with the realization of such average-ness and weakness?
“Our weakness is not news to God. He understands the limitations of the mortals He’s formed from dust. We, however, struggle to shed our illusion of superpowers. Will you trust that God has made you weak in all the right places to shine His glory through the cracks in your clay pot? What is God revealing as He tenderly teaches you to trust Him? How is God purposefully exposing your weakness to draw you to Himself?” Kingdom Divided study, BSF
Geez. YES!
I was talking with my co-worship leader the other day. Someone whom God has given many talents. We were talking about his talents and, just as in the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14) the importance of not squandering the gifts given to Him by God - to be used for his good and God's glory. God knew I needed less talents so that I would not squander them with self righteousness. My friend was entrusted with more talents - will he use them for purpose for what they were given?
Are you using your talents for the purpose for what they were given?
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