I remember when I was 22 years old- I was asked if I would be willing to manage my own Chick-fil-A restaurant. I already had 6 years experience and could basically walk in and run it without much training. At first, I turned down the offer out of shear fear- then, I began to think about all the benefits of running my own restaurant...so I accepted the offer. On January 1, 1993, I became the 'head cheese' of the Chick-fil-A, Fairgrounds Square Mall. It was a crazy experience!! However, there was one thing I didn't really take into consideration when making my decision- I looked really young for my age (people still say I look young for my age- "Oh, you're the youth leader?"). When I walked in and began managing- something interesting took place, I realized I needed to prove my abilities as a manager, because I certainly didn't look like one. I didn't only have to prove by action, but also in word, attitude, and authority. I had to show confidence in myself and in my employees. I had to show the employees, the customers, and myself that there wasn't anything that I couldn't handle in that restaurant. I had to gain respect from all those I came in contact with every day.
Needless to say, I grew and learned a lot about myself during those 18 months. God really showed me what I was capable of doing- He placed those abilities in me and I did I my best.
Today's verse talks about this fact:
No matter your age, when God blesses you with gifts, talents, and abilities- use them in such a way that sets an example to those around you. When you are young, you can feel very intimidated, insignificant, and incapable. But, God can use even the youngest to impact people for His glory- if that's what He wants.
The young person in this verse had to live by example in the following areas:
- speech- this includes any type of conversation being sure to avoid lying, gossiping, fits of anger, and the like. Being sure to encourage and find the best in people.
- life- everyday choices such as how you handle tough situations, who you hang out with, what you do in your spare time. Actions speak volumes!!
- love- acts of undeserved kindness and grace, self-sacrificing of time and energy, making sure the hearts' motives are showing through.
- faith- when life's problems come, choosing to act in faith over fear will prove an amazing example.
- purity (or integrity)- at times when mistakes are made, being sure not to put the blame on someone else or deny the mistakes- but own up to them, be changed by them.
YES!!
And when you're young, there's a lot of growing and learning along the way- but, no worries because God has you right where He wants you-
so trust Him and the abilities he's placed upon you...you won't regret it!!
I love you guys and pray for you constantly,
Pam S.
1 comment:
Hey Pam your doing an awesome job! love the connections you make to pretty much everything...and i had no idea about the Chic-fil-a thing ha thats really cool.
Moe
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