October 1, 2026
As time ticks by, I realize just how blessed I’ve been. Far from perfect and having made my share of mistakes, I’m overwhelmed with the protection and provision God has supplied over the years.
This brings to mind a dear friend from days gone by who’d respond when I asked how he was doing: “better than I deserve.” Recently, when given the same question, someone said, “living the dream.” With that, these words from Jesus come to mind: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more. As you mull over these words, consider these three challenges:
Capture the Moment- Discover your niche. Find a need and fill it. Say “put me in coach” when God glances down the bench. As Paul penned to the Ephesians: “Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV, emphasis added).
“In the year that King Uzziah died,” a shaky season in the kingdom of Judah, God looked for a prophet to represent Him before the people. When He asked, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Isaiah responded, “Here am I. Send me” (Isaiah 6:8). Walking along the Sea of Galilee, Jesus spotted a couple of working stiffs plying their trade. When He said to them, “Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men. Immediately, they left their nets and followed Him” (Matthew 4:19.20).
Develop your gifts- If you’re a believer, you’ve received special gifts from the Holy Spirit for service. Chief among the 19 listed in Scripture are apostleship, prophecy, teaching, administration, and prophecy (consult reputable sources for a complete list).
As Paul challenged his young son in the ministry, “Fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you…” (2 Timothy 1:6). After Jesus, the next best discovery you can make is your spiritual gifts. If you’re not sure what they are, ask God to reveal them. Talk with fellow believers you respect and trust. Search online and take a spiritual gift assessment.
Share your resources- Consider the three T’s of giving- Time, Talents, and Treasure. For many, time is more valuable than money in this harried society in which we live. Whatever the resource, these words from Jesus speak volumes, “Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure- pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you” (Luke 6:38).
Perhaps it’s time to take a more proactive approach to your generosity. In addition to responding to pleas for support, carefully research causes and ministries where you can make maximum impact. This applies especially to those who’ve transitioned from the accumulation to distribution phase in regard to resource management.
This brings to mind a story about America’s first billionaire, John D. Rockefeller. At the age of 53, Rockefeller was described by writer Ida Tarbell as “the oldest man I have ever seen.” His health was such that he existed on crackers and milk. His hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows had fallen out.
Fortunately, Rockefeller recognized the toll the money blues were taking on his life. Instead of seeking more dollars, he began giving them away -huge amounts to numerous worthy causes. What’s better is that he stayed alive to see the results, making it to 97.
While you may not be a Rockefeller, in all likelihood, you’re blessed, better than you deserve, perhaps even living the dream. Capture the moment, develop your gifts, and explore ways to share your time, talents, and treasure.
___
Todd Gaddis is a semi-retired minister living in Athens. He continues to serve as an interim pastor and can be reached at jtoddgaddis@gmail.com.
Share with others
