Increasing Hope - Play to your strengths!

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ (Phil 1:6).”

In business we are encouraged to analyze companies and even our own leadership lives by SWOT – reviewing our Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats. A leader is encouraged to emphasize and play to his or her strengths while minimizing weaknesses. In other words, do what you are good at and hire others to compensate for your weak areas. According to the Hope Quotient, one way to increase hope in our lives is to play to our strengths. It makes sense, as you excel in what you are good at, you begin to feel good about yourself in the success. We all need to feel like we are succeeding at some point!

The good news is that God made each of us unique with special gifts (Romans 12) and strengths that will benefit others. As we begin to exorcise these talents, we make a difference in the Kingdom of God (Matthew 25:14-30 and 5:13-15). He loved us so much that God sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins (John 3:16) and to cover our weaknesses – “For when I am weak, then I am strong [through Jesus] 2 Cor 12:10).” Jesus’ power is made perfect in our weakness as He compensates us in our weak areas. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to be with us and to guide and lead us, giving us power to witness and serve the world!

So, if you are feeling down and lonely, go find someone to serve and use your gifts, talents, strengths to help them. In so doing, you will not only feel better, but also you will be sharing the love of Christ with others! God will bless you and the person you are assisting…then purpose and meaning will flow back into you life!