Each of us carries within us gifts we didn’t earn, talents we didn’t create, and abilities planted deep within our soul. These gifts are not random but rather divine fingerprints, unique to each of us and meant to bring beauty, healing, joy, and truth into the world. And yet, how often do we shrink back to dim our own light, fearing judgment, rejection while simply believing we’re not enough?
Here’s a thought. Hiding your gifts isn’t humility but fear in disguise.
Jesus told a parable about three servants entrusted with “talents” (a form of money, but the metaphor is unmistakable). Two invested their gifts and their master was pleased. The third, afraid of failing, buried his. When the master returned, he wasn’t angry because the servant failed, but because he didn’t even try.
The message is clear: Gifts aren’t for burying. They are to use, grow, and bless others. When you write, speak, create, lead, teach, heal, serve, or encourage, you’re not boasting but participating in something holy.
Many of us are taught to be modest, which is good advice as pride can distort. But modesty does not mean silence. It doesn’t mean shrinking back until we’re invisible. Real humility says, “These gifts aren’t mine but given to serve others.”
The world needs our hidden gifts. Imagine if artists stopped painting, teachers stopped teaching, or leaders stopped leading out of fear of being “too much.” Such beauty would be lost!
Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden… No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket.” That verse doesn’t suggest some people are lights. It says YOU are the light, created to shine with truth, beauty, and love. When gifts are used, miracles bloom as grace meets courage.
It takes bravery to stand in the light. To speak when it would be easier to stay silent. To create when criticism is always possible. To lead when others may doubt your ability. But if your gift is God-given, your calling is to be faithful, not flawless.
So, start the business. Sing the song. Apply for the role. Offer the prayer. Write the book. Open your heart. The world doesn’t need more perfection but more people willing to be vessels of grace, hope, and truth.
If you’ve been hiding, it’s time to come out of the shadows. God didn’t make a mistake when He gave you your gifts. You are not unworthy of them. You are a steward of something eternal and unique. Let the world see what God planted in you.
Your gift is not for your glory. It’s for the good of others, and for the glory of the One who gave it.
So go ahead—shine.
