Salty Lemonade: A Refreshing Twist on the Recipe for Overcoming AdversitySample

The fact that you found this devotional and have gained some nuggets of wisdom to carry you through this journey is a gift. Please don’t take it lightly.

Speaking of gifts, I am reminded of young Timothy and his charge to “stir up the gift” that was inside of him (2 Timothy 1:6). Our gifts often show up when we overcome a major life challenge. I began writing books after several major life experiences happened and I wanted to share my testimony with the world. You too have gifts buried deep inside, or you may even be using your gifts right now. Whatever the case, don’t neglect or sit them on a shelf. Perhaps you are holding back because of fear or the lie that your life isn’t perfect at this moment so you can’t be used by God. You will never know the strength of Almighty God until you have to push through your own personal pain to minister to others. What gifts are you neglecting right now because you are stuck in a rut or wallowing in self-pity? Is there someone you could bless with your talents? If you think hard enough, I bet the answer would be yes.

Your Day Nine Challenge is to take inventory of the gift and talents God has given you, and then assess how effectively you are using your gifts. If this is a time in your life where you need to brush up in some areas, take the time to do so. Don’t let that be an excuse for not getting started though. The goal here is not perfection—it is purpose. When you become serious about fulfilling the purpose of God on your life, you will begin to see how your life is a testimony to the strength and faithfulness of God even in the midst of your storms.