I would try to play with other musicians and could not keep up, or didn’t know the chords. Over the years I prayed and struggled to learn songs now I probably know over 100. I know how to read chords, but there are still some I can’t quite play so I learned how to get around it. I’ve sang for my grandkids and at my daughter’s wedding which was a privilege.

I have gone to rest homes and state homes and I’ve played on the street and all by myself on the deck. My guitar went with me to fill in as music teacher and to my dad’s house to play and I’ve sang for my mom and her cousin and her friends that visited from out of town.

My gift goes with me wherever I go. It’s not limited to the walls of a church building. This lesson came from not being able to sing in church for a long time because either I was not needed or work would not allow me to go their practice times.

I have my favorite songs, but I’ve learned to surrender my gift to the Lord now. I ask him what songs should I play? What would truly help someone today? Or maybe I shouldn’t sing at all because it’s someone else’s turn. 

You all know I’m a preacher on growing. I am humble enough to admit I had some really bad “little kid fits” over not getting to use my gift when I wanted to at times. The key is to stay ready, keep on letting God teach, train and coach you……be ready for the opportunity he allows. If we do that, His river of life will surely see to it that we use the gifts he’s put inside of us! And there is nothing More fullfilling than doing what we were called to do.

Laura Grace