Ode To Joy

“There is no heavier burden than an unfulfilled potential.” —Charles Schulz

****

Why a quote on one’s potential from the creator of Peanuts? 😛

Let me explain.

Here is the word “potential” as defined in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary:

Potential (adjective)  po·​ten·​tial | \ pə-ˈten(t)-shəl \
1: Existing in possibility : capable of development into actuality
potential benefits
2: Expressing possibility
specifically : of, relating to, or constituting a verb phrase expressing possibility, liberty, or power by the use of an auxiliary with the infinitive of the verb (as in “it may rain”)
Potential (noun) — something that can develop or become actual

So basically, one’s potential refers to something–action and/or state of being–that one is capable of reaching or doing.

From the perspective of a young person who’s just a couple of months from hitting the big 18, this “potential” creates excitement, longing, and even awe at the possibilities that are open to me at this time of life. It’s part of what drives my dreams, goals and visions.

It’s the glowing, golden thread that runs through phrases like, “Keep reaching higher.” “Be the best you can be.” “Step out of your comfort zone.” “Do something amazing.” “Inspire others.”

We’ve all heard those cliches and motivational quotes before. And–full disclosure–I’ve been guilty of thriving off of sayings and quotes like the one at the top of this post.

But this much ado about something-someday leaves out a big chunk of the big picture. In fact, it leaves out what’s most important.

The Creator of what is, what was, and what is to come. The One Who gave you this potential, and entrusted talents, opportunities, and intelligence to you. 

He gave you the potential, the possibilities, the capabilities. You have nothing that He has not allowed you to have.

What are you going to do about it? 

Are you going to simply suffer under unleashed potential and live a life that’s not shining its brightest for God and His kingdom? Are you going to strive to reach your fullest potential for your own glory, wealth, and fame?

Or are you going to do everything you can, use everything you have, to further His glory and salvation? 

I pray that more Christians will lay down their fears and doubts at the foot of the cross, truly and fully surrender their entire lives–past, preset, and future–to their Lord and Savior, and go out into the world as sold-out, whole-hearted ambassadors for Christ.