Developing God-given Talents

When I was leading worship, I had a growing desire to be a songwriter. I loved creating music and writing lyrics that helped people express worship.

I wanted to get better at it, so I attended a songwriting workshop led by a producer who had worked on a few worship recordings. I liked his style and his heart. After the workshop, I asked if I could learn from him.

I sent him some of my best songs for honest feedback. Part of me wondered if this might open the door to a recording opportunity. I thought if he heard my songs, he might just stop everything and take on this project.

A few weeks later, we had a follow-up conversation where I asked for his feedback on the songs. Excited and nervous, I told him to be honest and not hold back. I’ll never forget the first words out of his mouth. “Well, I’ve heard all these songs before.”

For a moment, I wondered if he thought I had copied someone. These were my originals.

He went on to explain that the lyrics and style were fine, but nothing stood out. “Instead of saying God is great, describe His greatness. Use words to paint a picture of God. His strength is like the highest mountain. His love is as deep as the ocean.”

In other words, write in a way that helps people see God’s greatness, so worship becomes a response.

It was hard to hear, but I needed the wake-up call. It became a life lesson for everything I create or write.

God-given talents have to be developed. I still love to create and write, but I’ve learned the first draft is the worst draft.

God has given each person talents. Discover them. Develop them.

Use them faithfully for God’s kingdom assignments. That’s stewardship.