I firmly believe that talents, gifts, and skills are not random traits or accidents of birth—they are special abilities intentionally placed in people by God for the good of others, society, and the world at large. These divine abilities are meant not just for personal expression but for community transformation.
The Bible affirms this in Exodus 31:1-6, where God tells Moses:
“See, I have chosen Bezalel… and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all kinds of skills… Also, I have given the ability to all the skilled workers to make everything I have commanded you.”
Similarly, in Exodus 28:3, God says:
“Tell all the skilled workers to whom I have given wisdom… to make garments for Aaron for his consecration, so he may serve me as priest.”
These verses remind us that talents and people are gifts from God; both the talent and the person who carries it are divine gifts. God doesn’t just throw raw gifts into the world; He wraps them in human vessels. So when a talented person is born, it is not just the arrival of a life; it’s the arrival of a gift to the world.
Sadly, while God gives, the enemy corrupts. The devil cannot create or give good gifts. Instead, he works to destroy God’s gifts by destroying the people who carry them—through pride, addiction, immorality, bitterness, greed, bad company, and harmful influences. When a gifted life is wasted, the entire society suffers a loss.
When we reflect on figures like Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Brenda Fassie, and Ghana’s own Ebony Reigns (Priscilla Opoku Kwarteng), we are reminded of how fragile gifted lives can be. These individuals touched millions with their talents, but their lives were also marked by vulnerability—often due to a lack of guidance, protection, and support.
It’s time society acknowledged its role in nurturing and safeguarding its talented sons and daughters. Their influence is not just personal—it is national and even global. They are seen as role models and sources of hope, healing, and inspiration. Their gifts are not just for themselves; as 1 Peter 4:10 puts it, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.”
That’s why we must move beyond the “it’s their life” mindset. Talented individuals are a form of national treasure. Their well-being and moral compass should be a collective concern. We cannot afford to let such gifts be wasted or destroyed.
Let us, therefore, honour and protect them—not only to extend their lives and influence but also to ensure that the divine deposits within them fulfil their purpose on Earth.
Rest in peace, Ebony Reigns. Your light was brief but brilliant.
