Be Yourself

“For it was You who created my inward parts; You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I will praise You because I have been remarkably and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, and I know this very well.”

Psalm 139:13-14 HCSB

I have a magnet on my fridge that reads “Be yourself—Everyone else is already taken.”

How many times do we wish we were different? How often do we desire to be more like someone else? Or to stand out as better than another?

We all long to be important and valuable. Sometimes that means we try to avoid those “perfect people” that seem to have it all together and do everything right. Other times, we hide behind a facade to avoid showing others our flaws. Maybe we downplay our talent because we don’t want to appear to be showing off.

The truth is, we were created by the Lord and are loved by Him just as we are. We are loved with all our flaws. We don’t need to hide or change to be valuable in His eyes.

Those who know and love us will accept us, too. When we need to make changes, they will help.

There is only one you. You are unique. So laugh until you cry, sing when you’re off key, and dance when you’re not sure of the moves. Try something new even when you’re unsure how you’ll do. And smile in the photos! Be the best you can be and let your true beauty shine through.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this life and for creating each of us. Please help us to live our lives as the Scripture says, “Based on the gift each one has received, use it to serve others, as good managers of the varied grace of God. If anyone speaks, it should be as one who speaks God’s words; if anyone serves, it should be from the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To Him belongs the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:10-11 HCSB)

Journal: In what ways can you share more of your unique personality and talents today?

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash