The Byrd Caught the Swof

I have never taken a test to discover my spiritual gifts. In my opinion, the gifts of the holy spirit are not to be attempted to attain in a singular manner. What I mean is, on our continuous path to transformation, we are to discipline our flesh to all areas: giving, mercy, service etc. I do agree though, that the Lord equips strongly in one which is our motivation within the body of Christ and is strengthened by our disciple to equipped other fruits of the Spirit as we continue to conform our images of Christ.

This week, I am taking a mini term, 1 and 2 Peter and Jude. We took time to focus on spiritual gifts today and took a test. The outcome made me uncomfortable yet gave me insight to what it is I have been struggling with this semester. My results: Prophecy with mercy right behind it by 2 points. As you may suspect, this is abnormal for someone my age who still has so much to grow in. I see the Lord in this. I am having to learn the balance that most don't (or at least this is what I was told, actually was encouraged today by my professor referring to me Jeremiah "the weeping prophet" ).

Now, the struggle. I was not aware of this gift until today, but it certainly fits. I now understand the gift of prophecy. It is to proclaim God's message to a dying world that often does not want to hear it, boldly and without fear. It is also to proclaim God's word to the body of Christ (that often does not want to hear it), again boldly and without fear. Lol I even did this before I knew Truth, in a sense I would boldly speak to people through psychology. Yet it was the softening of my heart which gives me mercy.

Lately, everyone around me seems to cast me out. From what I have been told from the two friends I do have and family, is I expose vulnerability, and people don't like that, so I shouldn't do it. Lol! I must say, this is why I have been in hiding the last couple months. I anger people. This is very hard for me. I LOVE people. I hurt for them and I shout joy with them. Whats worse is when it comes down to a loved sister and God. I of course have ran to God. He has disciplined me to do so. BUT IT HURTS.

I still am in the dark, but I did have an encouraging conversation with my dear friend and mentor Dr. Wallace. To shed some light on the situation I am currently in, I am hated, mocked behind my back with irrational anger all around me Monday through Friday. The glares are certainly interesting lol. So of course, I am timid, full of insecurity, and doubt. It has overflowed into my pursuing of Gods will. She caught that and simply led me to this: to obey. That is all I can do. The rest is not in my control.

Please pray for me as the Lord continues to invest in me. So many times, I feel too weak. I know though, Truth prevails and will be exposed all for His glory. It's not about my comfortability, its about His glorification. Through joy and suffering.