Qualifying the Called: It's Your Duty to Show Up Sharp
- Nikki Parris
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
I overheard someone talking about me under their breath as I left a stage where I had just presented, "Must be nice...". As others thanked me and shared how they were impacted by the speech, I remember thinking, "Gifted doesn’t mean easy." Even the finest blades need regular sharpening—Ecclesiastes 10:10 backs that up.
"If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success."
Being Called isn't a pass' it's a responsibility. And maintaining that responsibility requires wisdom - sharpening. Sure, a dull blade can cut, but you'll throw your back out trying. So if you can quickly recognize success, also recognize the work that is required to maintain it. God's not apologizing for any gifts He bestows on us. That doesn't excuse us though, from proper stewardship with them.
Think about it: When’s the last time you nurtured your gift with intention? Like turned off the funny cat videos and sought out a real investment opportunity, to pour into your already-incredible abilities. There's no such thing as effortless excellence: even Heaven has a gatekeeper!
Want a good DO/DON'T DO list, for keeping it 5-Star?🌟
DO LESS | Keep it simple to preserve yourself & others. Romans 12:6-8 reveals a sure-shot recipe to prevent the spoiling of our gifts, no matter where we use them. |
LEAD WELL | Get clear and focused. Review your calendar to see what you're managing. Then do a vision-sprint: Restate your “why” and how others can link arms with it this week. |
SUPPORT WELL | Small Order fuels big obedience. Pull up and do that one lingering task- now. You can even leave this screen to do it. I'll be here when you return. Are your current conditions serving the vision God gave?" |
DON'T BE TOO DEEP | Practice may not 🟰 perfect, but it does 🟰 prepared. Gotta perform surgery? Grab a cadaver, anticipate hiccups, or visualize the procedure. Gotta speak? Record yourself, watch and queue up some speaker notes. Gotta pray? Go out-loud at your next meal. |
STAY SUBMITTED | Submit yourself. Not just to God, but also to people more wise than you. They may help you unlearn something that no longer serves you. Afterall, "Polished" happens one wiping-away at a time. 😏 |
Truth is... what looks effortless is often well-maintained obedience and discipline. If you're ready to get from behind the veil of comparison and maintain your brilliant light, let’s get intentional about sharpening your gifts. Coaching with Vitality is where clarity meets calling—and where your next level isn’t just imagined, it’s activated.
