“A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men.” – Proverbs 18:16
This powerful verse from Proverbs jumped off the page at me one day, resonating deeply and quickly becoming a personal touchstone. Having read the Bible numerous times, this particular passage, with its simple yet profound message, unveiled a truth about purpose and potential that I hadn’t fully grasped before. It speaks directly to you, and to me, about the inherent value and power within each of us.
One fundamental truth to understand is that God has bestowed gifts upon you. Yes, you! It’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling insignificant or lacking in talents worthy of divine gifting. You might think, “Who am I to be gifted by God?” But that very thought underestimates the intentionality and love with which you were created.
God designed you with a specific purpose in mind, a purpose that contributes to the advancement of His Kingdom. He has equipped you with unique gifts, skills, and talents that enable you to reach people and impact situations in ways that no one else can. Romans 12:6 beautifully articulates this, stating, “Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them.” This isn’t a suggestion; it’s an empowering directive.
It’s crucial to recognize that your giftings are inherently unique to you. Resist the urge to compare yourself to others or to covet talents you see in someone else. Your path is your own, divinely crafted and perfectly suited for the gifts you possess.
Perhaps you perceive your talent as unconventional or unpopular. It’s often those who feel they have the least to offer who end up accomplishing remarkable things for God. Consider Gideon (Judges 6). He was judged and perceived as a coward, hiding in a winepress to thresh wheat in secrecy. But God saw something different: resilience, resourcefulness, and a spirit that would defy the enemy even in the face of fear. Gideon’s perceived weakness became the very strength God used to deliver Israel.
The adversary of our souls wants to whisper lies, making you believe your gift is insignificant, incapable of making a real difference. Do not listen to this deception. Your gift does make a difference. It is a vital piece of the larger puzzle, uniquely shaped to fit into God’s grand design.
Another essential perspective shift is understanding God’s economy versus the world’s corrupt system. In Matthew 10:42, Jesus declares, “And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.” If your gift is offering simple acts of kindness, a listening ear, or practical help – even something as seemingly small as giving a cup of cold water with love – you are actively advancing the Kingdom of God.
The world often equates impact with wealth and fame. God’s measure is different. He calls us to love Him and love our neighbor. In fulfilling this, you are fulfilling your purpose on earth. Think of Billy Graham. The woman who led him to Christ may have never led another person to faith, yet her single act sparked a ripple effect that transformed the world. We rarely see the full scope of our actions, but God does.
So, how exactly does “your gift make room for you and bring you before great men?” The answer lies in consistent action and development. The more you utilize your gift, the more it expands and refines. Imagine a muscle, strengthened and toned with each workout. Similarly, your gift grows stronger and more impactful each time you put it into practice. As you cultivate excellence and demonstrate trustworthiness in using your gift, God will open doors of opportunity that you couldn’t possibly imagine.
I am currently experiencing this very principle in my own life. God has presented an opportunity for me to share my faith with someone widely recognized, a person of influence. It’s a humbling experience that prompts the question, “Who am I to be a witness to this person?” But then God gently reminds me, “I have uniquely gifted you to express My love in unconventional ways, and you have been faithful, even when it felt strange, uncomfortable, or even ‘wacky.’ This person needs the unique expression of My love that I have equipped you to provide, and I trust in your obedience to share it.”
This leads me to a personal request: please pray for me. There are days when I feel inadequate and ill-equipped for the tasks God sets before me. Like you, I have moments of failure and doubt. But here’s the liberating truth: occasional failure does not disqualify you. God is the God of endless chances. His patience is boundless, and He never gives up on you.
So, what are you waiting for? Step out and use your gifts to glorify God. Don’t forget to express gratitude to the One who bestowed these gifts upon you in the first place. Your unique contribution is needed, valued, and will, in its own time and way, make room for you.
~ By Kim Thompson-Pinder
