There is a saying my husband has recently started to repeat to my children. Before a big test, a race, or whatever they are doing, he looks them straight in the eyes and says, “God did not create you for mediocracy.”  
 
Now, I have to admit, the first time he said this he had to back up and define the word “mediocracy” for my two oldest children whose first language is not English. But the point he wanted them to understand is this: God has gifted them in special ways, and God desires them to use those gifts to their fullest ability.  
 
Growing up, I knew the gifts God had given me. I loved to sing. Loved to perform. Loved writing. Loved leading. And I had big dreams too. Dreams to sing professionally. To write books. To be a leader. But as big and beautiful as my dreams were, so were my insecurities. I may have had talent and even an incredible support system, but where I fell short was confidence. And I confess, too often I have let my lack of confidence determine my obedience with the gifts God has given me.  
 
Paul is pretty clear in 1 Timothy 4:14 when he tells us not to neglect our gifts. God gave us all beautiful gifts. Each of them out of love and with purpose. And because these gifts come from him, we should have full confidence that we were made to do great things with them. Not mediocre things. But great things! 
 
As a leader for an overseas ministry, I have to daily work at overcoming my insecurities. I may appear to be confident, but behind the scenes I am constantly fighting the lie that I am not good enough. But it is a fight I am determined to win.  
 
God didn’t create me for mediocracy. I have confidence in that. And he didn’t create you for mediocracy either. He has planted you somewhere and entrusted you with beautiful gifts to blossom there. Take courage. Have confidence. And do not neglect your gift.