X-Factor is back and already gripping the nation. Saturday nights now consist of more than 11 million people in the UK sitting in front of the television and watching all the auditions for a panel of judges, hoping to be the next big star!
As much as it is about the talent and finding the 'next big thing', in the early audition period much of the programme is dedicated to those hopefuls who believe they have the X-Factor, but the judges (and the crowd) very much disagree. It is quite amazing how some people can truly believe they have the voice of an angel, and the shock on their faces when the judges suggest singing is not one of their best qualities.
It is in fact the opposite of this situation that Simon Cowell and the team seem to love. Those people who walk on stage, who carry a presence and have extraordinary talent, and yet struggle to see it in themselves. Simon gets a little sparkle in his eye when he sees someone who he believes has the potential to be a star, but knows that they can be so much better when they understand just how good they are.
In what areas do you need to believe in yourself more? What gifts do you have that you need to exercise and develop?
Also, who around you has a gift or a talent that you can encourage and help develop? What can you do to help others understand how good and gifted they are?
I believe the Church is meant to be a community that encourages people's gifts, pushes people to be the best (and most Christ-like) they can be, and who do everything they can to develop those around them who have potential to do something great. Let's make those things strong characteristics in our lives, and ultimately in our community!
God bless
Tom MacDonald
Student Pastor @ SBC
