A Lutheran does 40 Days of Purpose

This is a challenging chapter that could open hours of reflection for the eager disciple.

By distinguishing abilities as aspects of our biological creation rather than heavenly gifts for heavenly tasks – spiritual gifts, Warren opens up another area of discernment. At Upper Dublin we once used a program developed by the Gallup Organization used in businesses worldwide, called Strength Finders. In Warren’s explication of SHAPE that makes perfect sense. The point is that these abilities were given by God and are to be used by God. I would quibble that fifty percent of ability comes from environment, not DNA, but avoiding such things makes Warren a better communicator.

Personality was a full year’s course in my college training as a psychology major. I appreciate how easily this complex phenomena is put into God’s service. While I know that what he writes about experiences are the hardest for folks to put into practice I have a lifetime of pastoral experience that proves him true.

After reading this chapter, I think I will spend the month I am planning for independent study next year exploring my SHAPE and my service to God.

|  Add to del.icio.us |  digg this

• #1 Comment from penllynlutheran 
  11/14/05 8:43 AM | Permalink

  My favorite sentence it the last one" The better the fit the more successful you will be." When I get involved in a ministry that isn't a good fit for me I usually struggle in the work and do not present an image of Christ to those who observe me in that struggle.   I'm going to start saying "no" to things I have tried and not felt good about to let others who are a better fit do that ministry.
  
  Earlier in the chapter I wince to read that God intentionally allows us to go through painful experiences to equip us for ministry to others.  I don't disagree that we can best minister to others who are having the same sort of bad time we have experienced.  It's the word "intentionally" that gives an image of a stern unloving God I have a problem with.  When my mother died friends supported me and in so doing taught me how to do that for someone else.  Those friends were the body of Christ.  I didn't experience grief and loss alone.