Are you doing what you were made to do? Most people are more aware of their weaknesses and deficiencies than their strengths and abilities. Get to know your God-given abilities, and how you can serve in your sweet spot.

Notes And Next Steps

Genesis 25:24-28  + Part 5 of the series “SHAPE"

The first to come out was red, and his whole body was like a hairy garment; so they named him Esau. After this, his brother came out, with his hand grasping Esau’s heel; so he was named Jacob. (Genesis 25:25,26)

Your personality shapes the way you:

• serve with your spiritual gift
• think about the passions of your heart 
• feel about your set of skills and abilities

Which personality is better, relating to God with more head or more heart?

The boys grew up, and Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the open country, while Jacob was content to stay at home among the tents. Isaac, who had a taste for wild game, loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob. (Genesis 25:27,28)

… how can the love of God be in that person? (1 John 3:17)

Love—not sameness—is what bridges differences.

Jesus understands, accepts and appreciates you.

I’m more comfortable: doing things for people 1 2 3 4 being with people

When doing a task, I tend to: focus on the goal 1 2 3 4 focus on relationships

I get more excited about: advancing a cause 1 2 3 4 creating community

I feel accomplished when I’ve: gotten a job done 1 2 3 4 built a relationship

It is more important to start a meeting: on time 1 2 3 4 when everyone gets there

I accomplish tasks best: by following the plan 1 2 3 4 by working it out as I go

FOR DISCUSSION

1. Which of the following do you think best represents the beautify and diversity of personalities God has given?
   1. The place setting of a fork, spoon and knife
   2. A zoo
   3. A beautiful stained glass window
   4. Rush hour traffic

2. Judging another person’s personality is telling God that he made a mistake, and using yourself as the baseline reference point. What key words in each of these Scriptures lead us to repent, and resolve to better love others? Romans 12:10, 14:13, 15:7. 

3. Today’s message can be summarized: “God understands and accepts your and others’ personalities perfectly. So the more you relate to him, the better you will relate to others.” How does this happen?

4. Are you more project-oriented or people-oriented? Can you provide any recommendation for a personality test that you have found helpful?