Found By YouSample

Do your work.

My husband and I have worked together in ministry at our church for many years. This combination worked well and was pretty sweet most of the time. There were many benefits to our job arrangement including having the same daily work schedule, such as easily coordinating our family’s schedules.

However, as we worked together, we figured out very quickly that we have different--let’s say--work habits. For example, I am constantly in motion and highly social. As a worship leader, part of my job was to curate songs for our worship service, so I listen to lots of music - most times with the speaker on blast. Kevin is quiet and mostly introverted. As you can imagine, we quickly decided that sharing an office was not an option for us.

About several years into working together, the organizational structure changed. This change moved us from an equal work relationship to one where he was my supervisor! From being partners in family and work life to having my husband become my manager at work created a different dynamic in our relationship. We needed to learn to work together in this new arrangement.

I have so much respect for his leadership. However, instead of developing my own leadership style, I found myself adapting to his methods, instead of using the unique giftings that God gave me and wants me to use. This attempt did not work. I could never sustain trying to be someone I’m not. Galatians 6:4 reminds us that we are to not compare ourselves to others.

Dedication to self-awareness is knowing who you are and who you are not. To seek this means to stay in a position of purpose and curiosity. Comparison to others’ gifting crushes the spirit and hides God’s beautiful work within you.

Reflection

Artist Morgan Harper Daniels wrote: “…Your journey was never meant to look like theirs.” Where are the situations and spaces you find yourself trying to be someone you’re not?

Prayer

Jesus, thank You for my unique gifts and abilities. I celebrate that I am wonderfully made and that You have given me gifts and talents---those discovered and those yet to be known. I’m sorry for the times I’ve tried to be someone I’m not and compared myself to others. Thank You for all You’re doing in my life. I receive Your love and acceptance. Amen.

By Patriece Fraser McPeak