The Purpose of Self-Development

Taking classes, doing training, maybe learning a hobby or language…most professionals see this kind of self-development as a must to get ahead. But in this second episode of Faithful on the Clock, we’ll explore why self-development isn’t about YOU at all, and how you can use it to reflect who God is.

Timestamps:

[00:04] - Intro

[00:27] - The traditional view of self-development

[01:25] - The traditional view of self-development is backward because joy, peace, and security are gifts rather than things to be earned.

[02:33] - The purpose of self-development is to reflect the image, potential, and nature of God.

[03:37] - You do not have to be perfect as you engage in self-development, but you are called to do what is difficult and right to set yourself apart as a believer.

[05:46] - Think about how your self-development can serve God any time you feel motivated to try something new and grow, and look for “off-label” uses for what you learn.

[06:32] - Prayer

[07:23] - Outro/next episode preview

[07:57] - Postroll CTA

Key takeaways:

• The traditional view of self-development is egocentric and focuses on how growth can benefit you. The scriptural view of self-development is God-centric and focuses on how growth can benefit Him.
• The benefits we usually associate with self-development, such as security or joy, actually are gifts from God. We cannot earn or manufacture them.
• Self-development is a way to acknowledge the original intent God had for us, and that we are meant to reflect who He is. It is a way to model to others the potential and character He has, and to be prepared for service.
• None of us can be perfect, be we are still called to try to be as much like God as we can be.
• The more open you are to how your self-development could serve God, the more opportunities you’ll see to apply your new skills or abilities for Him.

Relevant Links:

The Real Reason Self-Development Matters for Christians

CTAs:

• Think beyond your business when you go through self-development. Focus on whether the self-development could help you testify or give God glory.
• Go to Patreon.com/FaithfulOnTheClock to become a supporting member for the show. 

What's coming up next:

Leaders often do extensive planning to mitigate risk, but is that really the best way to make a good decision without stress? How can giving up control and not planning it all get you better results, and if you’re not in control, then who is?