Stop Waiting for PermissionSample

The Genius in You

Maybe you believe the lie, as I did for so long, that there’s nothing special about you. But God made you on purpose, with a purpose, and will equip you for your purpose.

The psalmist marvels in Psalm 139 at God’s intentionality and attention to detail when it comes to making human beings: “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (verse 14). “Fearfully” here suggests “with extreme and distinctive care.” God used extreme care when He created you, making you distinctive and utterly unique from anyone else before or since.

You don’t get to pick your genius. In a weird way, your genius picks you. Or, more accurately, God gives you specific abilities to fulfill your purpose and withholds others that aren’t necessary.

Is there an area of your life where your results far exceed your effort? The Bible tells the story of Samson, who was able to topple a whole building with the strength of his arms (see Judges 16). Scripture doesn’t say anything about Samson working out. There’s no mention of protein shakes or stacks of peanut butter sandwiches. Yet when Samson exercised his “natural” strength, the results were supernatural.

Is there something that comes so naturally to you that you assume everyone else can do it too—and then you’re surprised to find out different? Where does God seem to double or triple the results you might expect without His favor?

I know without a shadow of a doubt that there is greatness in you entrusted to you by our Creator. The treasure He has placed in your keeping has the potential to multiply everything you invest in.

If you’re parenting small children, God’s deposit in you can turn everyday frustrations into moments of connection and wisdom.

If you’re starting a new job, God’s deposit in you can bless your boss and coworkers.

If you’re serving your church, God’s deposit in you can unlock His plans for your whole community.

You don’t need anyone else’s permission—Almighty God has called you! And what He does through you will be above and beyond anything you asked for, thought, or imagined (see Ephesians 3:20).

In what area of your life do you find yourself continually blessed, with results exceeding your efforts? What might God be telling you through that about the greatness He has placed in you?

We hope you have been encouraged by this reading plan. Click here to learn more about Stop Waiting for Permission by Stephen Chandler.