The page tore raggedly. I didn’t care. It seemed like absolute trash and deserved to be ripped to shreds. My art could never be on the same level as others I had seen. I didn’t have the tools, I didn’t have the experience, and above all else, I didn’t have the skill. My sketchbook was filled with failed attempts and things that weren’t even close to the aim. I walked out of the room.
Later a custodian walked in the room. He went to pick up the trash and saw two ripped pieces of paper that were clearly together. The custodian is amazed. He wondered why anyone would throw away something that clearly took that much effort. “It looks like a professional made it,” he whispered.
“We are our own worst critic” is a common phrase often thrown about to describe why we are always our most critical of our own works. And yet even still, we doubt the gifts and talents that God has given us, and never think we are good enough to enact God’s plan with it. But that is the exact same reason we cannot rely on just ourselves, but why we also need to consult God and others around us.
Using your gifts to glorify God
God’s plan is not for us to trip or give up on the talents He has instilled in us but rather for us to follow Him and enact what He has given to us for Him.
If He has given you the gift of singing, then praise Him.
Writing? Then write your heart out and express His love on the page.
Art? Show His love through your drawings and paintings.
He did not give you gifts for you to bench them. He gave you gifts so you can use them for His glory. Use your gifts to glorify God. Let your light shine.
“There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work” (1 Corinthians 12:5-6)– No matter your talent, God can still be represented.
“The One I’m Running To” by 7th time down
Sharing hope for the next generation,
Bryce Bengtson
Wow, Bryce, what an AWESOME message!! Thank you!! I always am blessed and encouraged by your heart felt blogs from a teen’s perspective; a young man growing into the man the Lord desires you to be. Thank you for sharing this with us!! Love you and pray for you every day!! Oh and Bryce, I LOVE the song and video! I just had to share it on my timeline and with a friend whose husband needs encouraging!! Father’s perfect timing for your blog!!!
Bryce – Thank you for another powerful and beautifully written article. It really touched my heart as I am realizing God has given each of us His gifts to serve Him. He has made them unique to each of us. God has definitely gifted you in writing and it is so special you are doing it for His Glory and Honor and touching hearts for Him.
Hope you had a fantastic 16th Birthday. I am praying fervently for your precious Mom and your dear family. It is a joy and privilege to pray for y’all. You are all very special to me and to Jesus. One of my “gifts” from the Lord is to bake cookies and make peanut brittle for special friends. It brings me much joy! It makes me smile knowing you love the peanut brittle! You will have some soon!?
Have a blessed day in Jesus. Please give my love and hugs to your precious Mom and Dad. Love n hugs to you.❤️❤️??
Bryce’s post has convicted me! I’ve committed myself to #30PaintingsIn30Days & I’m having those same feelings that my art isn’t good enough. Thanks for the pep talk Bryce!