Natural Abilities: Practical

October 25, 2011 by Steve.

Definition
* Concerned with and actively engaged in the production or operation of something useful
* Concerned with the application of knowledge to useful ends, rather than with theory

Core Strength
You are skilled in working with tools.

Indicators

You find it easy and enjoyable to …
Handy
Know-how
Mechanical
Project-minded
Technological

You personally are …
Assemble
Build
Install
Operate
Repair

Biblical Example: Bezalel
“Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts - to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship.’” ~Moses 31:1-4

Personal Example
My late father, Howard Lake, was a tool-and-die maker with a strong set of practical skills. He shaped steel into molds that punched out pieces used to manufacture products. In the era before computers, Dad knew how to cut metal precisely, sometimes to within 100ths of an inch. One wrong move meant that the entire piece of metal was useless. When Dad was at home I remember him constantly working to maintain or repair the house or car. He changed the oil, tuned up the spark plugs, bled the brakes, replaced alternators, and countless other tasks. On occasion I’d go with him to the junk yard looking for a vehicle that matched our car’s make, model, and year. Then we’d remove the part we needed, went home, and Dad would replace the broken part on our car with the one from the junk yard. People with the practical abilities know how to use tools to work on mechanical and technological projects. This knowledge includes the building trades, automobile industry, and technology of all kinds.

Application
Do you have practical skills? Is the profile above describing you? If so, God has given you a wonderful natural ability that is needed in the Church. You may wish to explore the following volunteer opportunities:

• Look for opportunities to maintain or repair the church building – painting, carpet replacement, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, technology, or whatever your specialty might be.
• Use your practical abilities as a way to serve others – believers and unbelievers alike.
• Take part in a Habitat for Humanity project in your area.
• Go on a short term mission trip that plans to build or repair something needed elsewhere.

If this is one of your strengths, God intentionally gave it to you to serve others. Find a role in your church that will allow you to use this natural ability to meet needs, bless others, and bring you great personal fulfillment. Most importantly, using this natural ability will bring glory to God by allowing others to see Him in you.

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