When we look at the array of celebrities and influential figures worldwide, whether they’re in entertainment, business, science, or ministry, on thing is clear, talent plays a pivotal role in shaping success. From actors and musicians to designers, entrepreneurs, writers, diplomats, and innovators, their skills often become the foundation of their achievements. These individuals stand out because they have embraced and nurtured their God-given talents, and through them, they have achieved remarkable things.
It’s important to realize that talents are not just random abilities; they are gifts from God, meant to enrich our lives and help us fulfill our purpose. The Bible tells us in Proverbs 18:16;
“A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.”
Which means your talent is a key that can unlock doors of opportunity and success, leading you to your own “promised land.”
However, what about those who don’t achieve their destiny? Often, it’s because they either failed to recognize or use their talents, or perhaps they gave up too soon. Joseph, for example, rose to a position of great power in Egypt (a foreign land) because he didn’t hide his God-given ability to interpret dreams. Had Joseph ignored his talent, not only would he have missed his destiny, but the entire nation of Israel could have suffered as a result. This teaches us that withholding our talents can have consequences, not only for ourselves but for others around us.
In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus tells the parable of the talents, where a master entrusted his servants with varying amounts of money (talents) before going on a journey. The two servants who received five and two talents used them wisely, doubling their value, but the servant who received one talent buried it out of fear or non-challance. The master however, rebuked this servant for failing to use the gift he had been given. This story illustrates that God expects us to put our talents to work, no matter how small we think they are. Even if it seems insignificant, it’s better to use it than to let it go to waste.
David’s story also serves as a powerful reminder. While tending to his father’s sheep in the wilderness, he honed his musical skills and his proficiency with a sling. His musical talent brought him into the presence of King Saul, and his skill with the sling enabled him to defeat Goliath, leading to his eventual kingship. If David had neglected his talents, his story—and Israel’s—might have looked very different.
God’s given talents are meant to elevate us and bring us into the company of great men and women. But beyond personal success, some talents are given to make a broader impact. Imagine if the inventors of vaccines or life-saving medicines had never pursued their talents. The world would suffer without their contributions.
Romans 12:6 (NIV) says,
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.”
Our talents aren’t meant to be kept to ourselves—they are meant to bless others and fulfill God’s greater plan. So when you refuse to use your talent, you not only limit yourself but also deny others the benefits that could come from it. In a sense, holding back your talent is an act of selfishness, and it can be seen as disobedience to God, the giver of that gift.
In conclusion, don’t hide your talent. It’s your God-given tool to get you to where you’re meant to be. Be diligent in using it, train others if you can, and remember that you’re not just doing it for yourself—you’re doing it for the greater good. As the Bible says in 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV),
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
Remember, as you utilize your God-given talents, make it a priority to ensure they bring glory to God and never dishonor Him in any way.
Shalom and Happy Sunday!
Born as Titilayo Oladimeji, I have been known by the nickname Titipetral for nearly two decades. I am a Financial Advisor at a reputable financial institution in Lagos, Nigeria, with over 10 years of experience in Financial Advisory and Credit Analysis. I am also an author and the founder of Titipetral Publishers, a duly registered publishing company.
In addition, I lead the Titipetral Empowerment and Development Network (TEDN), a duly registered philanthropic initiative dedicated to supporting underprivileged girls, boys, women, and men in the Alimosho area, Nigeria’s most populated local government, focusing on serving the underserved.
For inquiries or collaboration, you can reach me at Titilayooladimeji@titipetral.com or titipetral@gmail.com.