WEEKLY WISDOM - YOUR CRAFT

I respect those persons who have put in the time to polish their skills in whatever industry or business in which they work. They have moved from being a “jack of all trades” to a “subject matter expert”. Mastered is to become very skilled in or knowledgeable in a particular subject or matter. There are those who work on relentlessly on honing their craft.

I would like to pay homage to my mother who has served as an entrepreneur in the hairstyling business for more than the last thirty-five years. I witnessed her take her passion and turn it into her profession. She started by going to school while working full-time and being a mom. Then saw her transition from working her factory job to operating full-time in her business. The journey was from part-time while still working her factory job and then slowly, consistently moving into her profession. Over the years, I have seen her continue her learning through various trainings as well as perfecting the different hair techniques. I honor her as she has been able hone her craft and even though she is mature in age there are still young women who utilize her services. Shout out to mama!

As you think about your own craft, what is it that you have mastered? Here are a few questions for you to ponder.

·       How long have you been exercising your craft?

·       What do you do on a consistent basis to hone your skill in this area?

·       Do people seek your guidance unsolicited?

·       How do you measure your growth?

·       Do you collaborate or partner with others who are also strong in your craft?

·       Do you have a vision or mission for your craft that focuses you consistently?

·       Does it serve others in a positive way?

These are just a few questions that can help you focus and hone your craft.  

I believe your craft surpasses your passion. You can be passionate about something but not be skilled in it. That could be your favorite sport, hobby, music interests, public speaking. You get the idea. With your craft, it should inspire and push you to raise your game for the ultimate purpose to lead and serve others.

As a leader, how are you utilizing your craft to lead and serve others. Believe me there are scriptures to support the excellency of your craft. Here are five scriptures that can direct, inspire, motivate, challenge, and focus you every time.

1.    Joshua 1:8- This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

2.   Daniel 6:3- Then this Daniel became distinguished above all the other presidents and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him. And the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.

3.    1 Corinthians 15:58- Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

4.    Colossians 3:23- Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.

5.   Titus 2:7- Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity.

As you meditate on these scriptures and focus on your craft, think about who you are serving and the benefits they are gaining because of your gifting. This perspective calls you to your highest purpose when others are strengthened by what you bring to the table.

It took me a while to discover my craft so going through these questions helped me zero in and focus on bringing my best to the table every time despite the challenges that have come my way. I have named the mission of my craft as Optimizing Transformation. Through my public speaking, leadership experience, facilitation, and moderating skills, I hope that others are transformed, and their lives are enriched by my content and presentation.

Now you go and inspire your audience with your craft!

(EQUIPPING)

Exercise Your Power this week

1. Name the leadership craft that you have mastered and how you have consistently honed that skill.

2. Read the book of Daniel and become inspired by his commitment to his craft.

3. Identify practical ways that others will be served by your craft.