“For no matter how significant you are, it is only because of what you are a part of. An enormous eye or a gigantic hand wouldn’t be a body, but a monster. What we have is one body with many parts, each its proper size and in its proper place. No part is important on its own.”

I Corinthians 12:19-21

Who or what do you want to be when you grow up? The Bible mentions a variety of jobs that demonstrate specialization and God’s creative genius by equipping each person with different skills and talents. David was a shepherd and then the king of a nation (I Samuel 17:15, II Samuel 5:1-5). The apostle Peter was a fisherman (Matthew 4:18). The apostle Paul made tents (Acts 18:3). Luke was a physician (Colossians 4:14). Aaron was a priest (Exodus 28:1). Nehemiah was a project manager (Nehemiah 1-6).

Just as the body of Christ has many members that serve different purposes to accomplish various tasks (I Corinthians 12:12-26), vocations are different because humans are uniquely created by God. Each season of life brings us opportunities to serve Him in new ways. In any moral vocation, Christians should strive to bring glory to God and add value to the world with the talents, skills, and resources He has provided.

Also, who we are as people is more important than any vocation we choose. Who we are on the inside matters. Others look at the outward appearance; God looks at the heart (I Samuel 16:7, Proverbs 17:3, 21:2, Matthew 23:27-30). Christ was crucified and rose from the grave for all people (Colossians 3:11) not just people at a certain pay grade. Specialization of skills and division of labor allows us to accomplish magnitudes more than any other living creature. God asks us to take both joy and responsibility as we care for the world around us. "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord" (Colossians 3:23 NIV)

Ultimately, regardless of our occupation or age, we should continually strive to hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matthew 25:23, NIV).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, You love us. You made us. You will keep us prepared for what comes next. Thank You for Your love and patience. In return we will strive to glorify You in all we do and say. Help us discern Your will for our lives. Help us overcome weaknesses. Help us remain focused on You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.