But, Do I?

(After reading, please see bottom of email for important news about "You Are Amadeus".

Years ago, an older woman complimented me after a performance I'd been involved in. I've never found it easy to handle accolades, but when I almost guffawed at her very kind words, she pointedly said this: "When you use your God-given gifts for Him, you shouldn't slap Him in the face when someone acknowledges it." I'm sure my face reddened as I was humbled that day. But she was right.

Being taught that pride is wrong, I'd distorted what that meant.

God gives each one of His children the gift, or gifts, He knows we'll need to fulfill our missions for Him.

When my children were young they all exhibited at least some musical talent, so because I played piano and sang in church, they (by default) were taught to use their gifts to praise Jesus too.

Usually it would look like this:

Kids: "Yea! We get to sing and play a song in church today!"

Me: (feeling quite proud of not only their skills, but of their enthusiasm): "Yes! What a wonderful blessing to be able to use our talents for God!"

But occasionally, it would be more like this:

Kid(s): "I don't feel like playing and singing in church today."

Me: "Yes, you do."

Whining Replies: "No!"

The conversation would go back and forth this way until finally, with intensity:

Me: "We are all walking onto that stage, and doing what we've practiced. Remember ... we're doing this for JESUS!" (Again, this is me being transparent about my exceptional parenting skills.)

This past weekend I went to a music practice with one of our children, and some of hers. With the exception of my oldest grandchild, two of them hadn't had much exposure with being on a stage. While we practiced, it became quickly apparent that the youngest was experiencing what could only be termed as stage fright. While practicing with me, and with her mom at home, she'd had no problem singing a solo line at the very end of our piece. Being on stage, however, was proving a different story.

Have you ever heard someone quote you? This can be a somewhat humbling experience, as well.

When I saw my daughter peer down at hers, suddenly it was as if I was hearing myself.

"You're doing this! I had to when I was small, and you're going to do it too. You'll be fine." Although more kindly said, the words themselves were definitely similar to what had historically been voiced in her direction.

It was then, with chagrin, that I was compelled to step in.

Whether or not this was me trying to right previous wrongs, is arguable, but I motioned to my granddaughter to come over and sit with me at my usual place on the bench at the piano.

When I saw the tears in her eyes, my heart melted like it never had for my own kids, and I gently told her a few encouraging things, while acknowledging her nervousness. After only a few moments she hugged me, and said she'd like to use her voice for God. We hugged, and I began praying that she'd follow through.

While talking to her I wondered, not only why I'd been impatient with my own kids, but--DO I?

Do I always use my gifts willingly and cheerfully?

Do I put in my best effort, and the needed work to accomplish what God intends for me to complete?

Do I do everything He needs me to do - for His glory?

Although my approach wasn't always the best, I did, and still do, believe it's good to teach our children about the importance of using their talents for the One who gifted theirs to them.

It's not about expecting perfection with everything we do. God knows we're far from perfect. But it's ALL ABOUT the perfect Saviour, Who in His goodness has given us everything we need to accomplish what He has for us to do! (Even when we feel nervous.)

What an exciting thought for 2025!

Verses to encourage you and I:

Phil. 4:13 - "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." (NASB1995)

Col 3:23 - "Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord ..." (NASB1995)

James 1:17 - "Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." (NASB1995)

By the way ... she may not have smiled much, but she sang the next day!

May we all "sing" to Him, with whatever gifts He has placed in us.

Pattie Janzen

Update on the novel: "You Are Amadeus"

What's it about? A blind, scarred young woman with a challenging past, and present, must deal with a mysterious and secretive neighbour, as well as an older woman who moves in and out of her life. Why? God always has a reason ... even when we can't see it.

When will it be available? February 1st!

FREE BOOK WINNERS: If you opted to wait for this book, I will get it to you as soon as I receive my printed copies.

FOR SUBSCRIBERS to my website ONLY: If you choose to purchase a copy, or copies, you will be given a discount. Please contact me through this website, or email me directly at: pdjanz11@gmail.com, or text/call: 306-621-7544 with your full name and email address. I will send further details to you. If you live in the Saskatoon or Yorkton area, I will hand deliver your book to you. (Shipping and handling will be added to the cost, if this isn't possible.)

FOR EVERYONE WHO IS NOT A SUBSCRIBER: You may pre-order on Amazon SOON, OR >>>> if you live in the SASKATOON or YORKTON areas, you may order through me. (Contact info in previous paragraph.) If you order in the next few weeks, I will try my best to get your book, or books, to you before Valentine's Day!

(Pre-orders are welcomed so that I have a better idea of how many I should obtain.)