"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us." — 2 Corinthians 4:7 (NKJV)

In the journey of career and life, we often struggle with questions related to identity, purpose, and what we are truly capable of achieving. As we mature, many of us feel trapped in routines or unfulfilled in our current roles, unaware of the vast potential that lies dormant within us. Myles Munroe, a respected Christian leader and teacher, often taught on the concept of potential as a divine gift—a hidden treasure placed by God in every human being. He taught that understanding and unleashing this potential is not just a path to personal fulfillment but a divine mandate.

What Is Potential?

Potential is the ability to become what you were created to be. It is not what you have already accomplished, but what you are capable of achieving. It is the seed of greatness that is planted in you, waiting to be cultivated, developed, and brought to fruition.

If you have ever watched to movie “Esther”, you probably remember the line, “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter.” This is a scripture that underscores the idea that potential is a divine mystery that we must diligently seek to uncover. It is our responsibility to search them out, to discover and develop the gifts we were born with.

Why Don’t We Tap Into Our Potential?

Many people go through life never realizing their full potential. They become comfortable with mediocrity, bound by fear, or distracted by the immediate demands of life. This raises a critical question: What untapped potential lies dormant within you, waiting to be discovered? Our failure to realize our potential is often due to a lack of knowledge and vision. The Word states that, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6) tells us,” and “where there is no vision the people perish” (Proverb 29:18).  Without understanding who we are the divine calling for which we were created, we risk living far below our true capacity. When I say capacity, I’m not just talking about financial matters but also wisdom, love, joy, peace, and the list goes on. Who wouldn’t want more of that!

According to the American Psychological Association only 33% of Americans are happy in their careers, with the majority feeling unfulfilled and underutilized. These numbers highlight the widespread issue of untapped potential and the need for a deeper understanding of one’s true abilities and purpose.

The Power of Potential in Your Career

Understanding and developing your potential can radically transform your career, just like it did Joseph. He went from being a shepherd to being second in command in the nation of Egypt. Just like Joseph, God has equipped you with unique gifts, talents, and abilities that are essential not just for personal success, but for fulfilling His divine plan. When you tap into your potential, you align your career with your calling, bringing greater satisfaction and impact in your professional life.

In practical terms, unleashing your potential involves a continuous process of self-discovery, learning, and growth. It means stepping out of your comfort zone and setting ambitious goals. Munroe emphasized and the story of Joseph emphasized the importance of vision in discovering your potential. You must first see the potential within you before you can unlock it. What vision has been placed in your heart that you have yet to pursue?

Unlocking Your Potential: A Fulfilled Career Awaits

If you are of the Christian faith, then you are called to be a good steward of the gifts and talents God has entrusted to you. Understanding your potential is not just about personal gain but about glorifying God through your work and service.

Embracing your potential is about recognizing the divine treasure within you and taking BOLD steps to cultivate it. It is about understanding that your career is not just a job but a platform for living out your God-given purpose. As you reflect on these concepts, ask yourself: Are you living up to the potential God has placed within you, or are you settling for less?

Although this concludes my article for this month, I want you to go back and answer those questions in the article. Meditate on them, pray about them! Read the story of Joseph in Genesis. There are many career lessons you can learn from his story.

May this journey of discovering and unleashing your potential lead you to a career that is not just successful, but deeply fulfilling and aligned with God’s will for your life.