“God blessed them: “Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge!” Gen 1:28 (MSG)
The Nobel Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in the world. It was instituted by Alfred Nobel, a 19th-century Swedish chemist, engineer, inventor, and industrialist, who left instructions in his will that his fortune be used to create five prizes. Today is ‘Nobel Day’ when the Nobel Prizes will be conferred on those who have provided the “greatest benefit on mankind” in physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature, and peace.
We are also called to innovate as the prize recipients have done. In Genesis 1:28, God blessed the first humans and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it – (NIV)”. This speaks of multiple gifts and talents that should be used to subdue – persuade or influence the world.
In different seasons, different giftings have manifested for me: dance, debate, gymnastics, academics, athletics, finance and accounting, cooking, public speaking, creative writing, mentoring, and career coaching, to name a few. I even served as a worship leader at a small church in Geneva upon receiving a new job posting. There was a need, and I volunteered to serve.
The Message version of the Bible says: “God blessed them: “Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge!” We were called to use our talents to innovate and break new ground in economics, manufacturing, performing and creative arts, fashion, publications, leadership, logistics, law, education, sciences, engineering, culinary arts, and so much more. Don’t let anyone tell you any different!
You are encouraged today to write down two things you are good at, then examine how you can use them to serve others – your family and as ministry. Moreover, do not be shy in thinking of how it can become a prosperous business enterprise. Once done, pray that God will give you the grace to Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! And Take charge!
Read: Genesis 1:29; John 15:16
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 30:1-10; Revelation 2:1-17; Zechariah 12; Zechariah 13; Zechariah 14
