An expert? No! A purpose? Maybe!

I have recently had several phone calls from some of my closest friends. They are going through some tough times and I am thankful they call me to help get them through those times. I *counsel* them to the best of my ability, do not judge what they share with me, and try to give them other *perspectives* and I always feel like I help them. If nothing else, I usually know exactly how they feel or have *been there-done that.* This doesn't mean I am *qualified* to be a *certified counselor* nor do I think I believe I am the end all-fix all of all of their problems. However, maybe counseling is what God is preparing me for one day. I have always been a good listener. I have been reading "Confident Woman" by Joyce Meyer (yes Stacey-yet another self-help book;). I love to be inspired and have good verbage to share with my friends when they talk to me about things. This book has been great for me to read-not because I feel I lack confidence (we all do sometimes) however it has reminded me yet again that we ALL have God given talents and a purpose. Don't concentrate on what you CANNOT do. Do what YOU know you CAN do. Be an expert at it. Why try to succeed at everything and be only mediocre at all of it when you can show expertise in one or a few areas? I can relate to Joyce Meyer in many areas. Always wondering why you can't do this or that-there are people who are meant to do this or that-and you might not be one of them. Use what God gave you and work WITH your abilities! Regardless of where you are in life. A stay-home mom, or a wife that doesn't work, a single woman, a single mom, a working mom, etc. It simply doesn't matter. The book lead me to the verses Proverbs 31: 10-31. Inspiring verses for women in all areas of their life.
And no-I will not result into *spiritual pride* or *self righteousness*-I know I have much to learn. That is why I delve into these books like I do.;) And in all honesty, preaching isn't something I have the right to do since my hubby and I are not currently attending church (not that I think that gives anyone a right either). We know we need to. We would like to. We just simply haven't.
Just wanted to SHARE with some of you the things I have been learning, not that I am an expert on. ;) But-someday-just maybe!