I used to sit in the corner of the classroom, shrinking myself to stay invisible. I didn’t want to be called on, didn’t want to speak, didn’t want anyone to notice me. I was afraid of stumbling over my words, of saying something wrong, of being laughed at. And yes, I did speak, and mispronounced words and they did laugh.
So, I stayed quiet. But at home? I was a different person. I talked nonstop. My parents told me that sometimes I asked so many questions that I didn’t allow them to sleep.
It took me years to realize that the voice I hid out of fear was actually a gift. It wasn’t loud or distinguished, but it was powerful. When I began teaching Sunday school, leading Bible studies, and sharing encouragement with others, something clicked. People listened. They connected. I saw myself the way God had all along: gifted. I was a communicator, whether speech or written, and this was a talent I was born with.
But for so long, I didn’t believe I had anything to offer. Maybe that’s where you are right now, looking at everyone else, watching them shine and wondering: What about me? Did I miss the day God handed out talents?
Some people seem to know what they're good at from the moment they can walk. They’re drawing masterpieces with crayons, singing their ABCs in beautiful falsetto, or leading their team to victory on the field.
And then there are “the rest of us.” The ones who wonder if maybe we were overlooked or forgotten and are wondering, “Do I even have a talent?”
Let me stop you right there. You are not talentless. You are not forgotten. You are not too late. But you may be hiding. Hiding behind fear, shame or lies.
Let’s debunk these lies:
1. I Don't Have Talent
You do. But maybe it doesn’t look like what you expected. You may not be a singer or dancer. Maybe you’re the one who sees solutions when everyone else sees problems. That’s not “just” a skill, it’s God-given.
2. My Talent Is Too Small To Matter
The enemy loves this one. The parable of the talents in Matthew 25 tells of a man who buried his talent (even though the scripture referred to money, this is still relevant here) because it felt too small. He thought, "Why bother?" But your "small" could be someone else's breakthrough. You don’t need an audience, you need obedience.
3. Their Talent Is Better Than Mine
Comparison is a thief, robbing you of confidence, joy, and purpose. There is no competition in God’s calling. Your gift and talents matter—not because they look like someone else's, but because they’re yours. How many times do you see someone in church afraid to pray because their voice is not as powerful as another's or because they don’t have all the fancy words. Do you want to know a secret? Most times when I looked back at my answered prayers, they were not loud or had many words, but they were sincere.
Now that we have kicked out those lies, what’s next?
1. Get Quiet Before God
Ask Him. Let Him show you what He placed inside of you. Reflect on Proverbs 3:5–6. You might be surprised by what’s already there, waiting for your yes.
2. Use What’s in Your Hands.
During a practice session in my Life Coaching Certification, I told my partner I wasn’t sure I could do it. She looked at me and asked, “What do you have in your hands?” Reminding me of Exodus 4:2, when God asked Moses the same question. Moses saw a stick, but God saw a tool for miracles. So, I ask you, what do you have in your hand?
3. Surround Yourself with People Who See Your Purpose.
Not everyone will understand your calling. But there are purpose-minded people who will fan your flame. “Iron sharpens iron.” — Proverbs 27:17
4. Chase Purpose, Not Perfection.
Waiting to be perfect will leave you paralyzed. You don’t have to have it all together. Just start. if you love hospitality, don’t wait until you get the degree. Serve where you are. The more you use your talent, the more it will grow.
5. Be Bold—Even If You’re Afraid.
It’s okay to be nervous but make the step anyway. The same God who gave you this talent has equipped you. Just ask Moses.
Stagnation happens when we stop using what we’ve been given, but breakthrough happens the moment we start. So, I ask you again: What have you been hiding? What would happen if you stopped letting fear lead and started walking in faith? Use what’s in your hands and watch God use it for His glory.
Kay-Dian Edwards is a writer for noblemedianetwork.com. She is an author, speaker, Certified Christian Life Coach, and Bible study leader with a deep passion for empowering women through the Word of God. She specializes in encouraging healing and uplifting women who have been wounded by relationships, guiding them to rediscover their true worth.
With a background in human resource management, customer care, and organizing women’s workshops and conferences, Kay-Dian is committed to helping women step confidently into their God-given identity. She also serves as a Justice of the Peace and is engaged in volunteerism and community service.
