One of the things I am passionate about is personal development.  I take it upon myself to develop my God given potential.  I do this because I believe that a person’s assignment will be in direct relationship to their ability to handle it. 

I realize there are some of you who will jump to the conclusion that I left the Holy Spirit out of that past sentence.  Please note that I realize that God is in the business of empowering people for the tasks he has called them to, but, in general, it is incumbent upon ourselves to partner with God to grow into those assignments.  This is because growth is both a spiritual process and a process of effort.

So, generally speaking, if we desire or feel called to be a great preacher, we need to read the books, listen to and watch the tapes of ourselves speaking, get constructive feedback, and work like a dog. 
Now, you and I all know a number of pastor’s who are lazy…but most we know probably work quite hard.  But are we working hard in the right areas?  Are we working in our gifts?  Are we working within the areas God has created a special passion?  Do we know ourselves and are not trying to be Bill Hybles or Erwin McManus, but the minister you were called to be?

This morning I read an article on the Monday Morning Insight (a great site!) about fanning into flame the gifts God has given you.  It spoke to me.  I comment it to you.

Link: http://mondaymorninginsight.com/index.php/site/comments/when_hard_work_isnt_enough_to_get_the_job_done/