Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Getting into S.H.A.P.E.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.     Matthew 7:7-8

This past weekend was such a beautiful weekend, especially in comparison to the recent weeks and Atlanta’s Famous “Snowpocalype.”  Lori and I took full advantage of getting outdoors and getting some exercise.  As we were out, I was amazed how many people were outside, trying to get into shape and ready for summer. Last year as Americans, we spent over $40 Billion on some sort of weight loss program.  Although I believe getting into physical shape is important, knowing your spiritual S.H.A.P.E. is just as crucial. Over the next few posts, I will be sharing from Rick Warren’s book  – “Shaped to Make a Difference.”

This book has been helping me to rediscover how God has designed and orchestrated everything in my life for His purposes and plans.  As I am coming to the end of my Sabbatical, this has been a great tool for figuring out how God desires to use me next. Here is a brief explanation of the acronym:
           
S – spiritual gifts
            H – heart
            A – abilities
            P – personality
E – experiences

Just as no two persons have the identical physical shape, we all have a different spiritual SHAPE as well. So we will be looking at how God has specifically designed each of us. Unless you fully understand your SHAPE, you will continue to be frustrated or miss out of being fully used by God. Nothing can be more frustrating then trying to fix something with the wrong tool. Not knowing your SHAPE, would be like using a screwdriver to hammer a nail. Although it possible to drive the nail, it would be less frustrating and less painful if you use the right tool for the right job.  So join me over the next few posts about discovering your S.H.A.P.E.


Please let me know if there is any way I can help you while you walk through this process.  Feel free to contact me at pastorjabo@gmail.com.