But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Therefore it says, “When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.” (Ephesians 4:7-8, ESV)
I recently played with an aspiring golfer who stood four inches taller and exhibited a smooth, powerful swing. Her drives sailed 30 to 40 yards beyond mine. I struggled settling into the round and in my frustration, I tried to “keep up.” The harder I pressed, the more unraveled my swing felt. I scoured for something to feel good about, but I was only aware of my aging body and disappointment in my play.
In the end, all the inner banter and comparison was futile, especially since I enjoyed her company immensely. I headed to the range after we finished so that I could collect the fragments of my swing. Once I got on the road toward home the truth began to speak to my soul: I arrived at the course later than I expected, I felt rushed in my short warm up, I’ve been working on my swing, but haven’t had enough repetitions yet, I’m okay, I will keep at it.
Have you ever found yourself feeling small in the shadow of a person’s talents? How about in the face of another’s faith or spiritual wisdom? Did you try to keep up, trying to prove your worth through your action or words? Or did you shrink back, feeling small and discouraged? I have experienced both. If we choose to pause long enough, truth will have the opportunity to emerge.
Spiritually speaking, we are all on our own journeys with Jesus, at different points along the way, and he has given us different gifts.
What might this truth be?
– God first loved us (John 3:16)
– We are sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13)
– Grace (the benefits bestowed in and through Christ and his gospel) is given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift (Ephesians 4:7)
These are only three of the many truths that populate the pages of Scripture. We are reconciled to God because Jesus gave his life for us. We can’t do anything to earn his love and grace. He also gives us the measure of gifts he sees fit. Our work is to remain open and to seek to understand what these gifts are that he has uniquely allotted.
It is futile to compare and compete against each other. I realize this every time I play with younger players nowadays. Golf is not my full-time job, and my body doesn’t move in the same way anymore. My pursuits and desires are different. Spiritually speaking, we are all on our own journeys with Jesus, at different points along the way, and he has given us different gifts.
Today, let us be reminded that because of his grace, we can keep learning and growing in the measure of the gifts Jesus has given. Receive and keep at it!
—
Tracy Hanson
July 29, 2021
Copyright 2021 Links Players International
The Links Daily Devotional appears Monday-Friday at www.linksplayers.com.