Are You Able or Capable? Growing Your Gifts Through Christ

Have you ever felt discouraged because you aren’t “there” yet—because your skills or talents don’t seem to measure up to where you want them to be? If so, you’re not alone. But there’s a powerful truth that often gets overlooked: the difference between ability and capability.

We often hear the words "ability" and "capability" used as if they mean the same thing, but there’s a subtle, yet powerful, difference. Ability is what you can do right now—your current skills and talents in action. Capability is your potential—what you could do in the future if you keep developing and believing in yourself.

Think of Superman (humor me) for a minute. He’s celebrated as being “able to leap tall buildings in a single bound,” but he wasn’t born Superman—he started, perhaps, as a super baby. As he grew, his abilities developed. One could argue the possibility and even the probability that he didn’t leap tall buildings on day one; rather, he worked his way up. His capability—the potential within him—became ability through growth, belief, and experience.

It’s the same for us. Maybe you don’t have the ability (yet) to do something you dream about. That doesn’t mean you’re incapable. Your capabilities are seeds—they need time and faith to grow into abilities.

The Bible reminds us of our deep potential:

“I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13, KJV)

Notice it says all things, not just the things you can already do. Your capability is anchored in Christ, not just your present circumstances.

If you start believing in your God-given capacity, I am convinced you’ll see your abilities begin to grow. Jesus said, “...With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26, NIV)

So, don’t limit yourself based on what you can do right now. Trust that you are capable and keep moving forward. With faith, effort, and God’s strength, you’ll be amazed at how your capabilities turn into real, powerful abilities.

You are capable. Believe it, nurture it, and watch your abilities grow!

Coach

Kathryn

Before we run in ability, we climb in capability!