Article By Mindy Hopman, FCA Regional Director of Ministry Advancement (Florida)
The world tells us we need to be successful, and success only comes from tangible items. So we run, race and compete to be the best, the smartest, the fastest and, sometimes, even the funniest. But it leaves us exhausted trying to keep up.
But there’s good news: the Word of God tells us that when Jesus died on the cross, sin was nailed to it, and we don’t have to live empty in a world full of comparison and competition from brokenness anymore.
The miraculous story of creation can be found in the first two chapters of Genesis, but God wanted more than to admire the beauty of His workmanship. Something was missing. On the sixth day, God created man and woman so He could enjoy fellowship with someone like Him. And He didn’t hold back in His design.
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.” –Ephesians 2:10
The Creator of the universe thought specifically of you when He created you. You are His masterpiece. Yes, you have a love for your sport. You may even be skilled in it. Your passion for the game isn’t a random incident that came upon you when you started playing; it came from intentional creation. Before all things began, God already was, and He had you in mind.
You are who God meant you to be. His perfect love was behind every part of your unique design.
“Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness.’” –Genesis 1:26a
In a time when physical appearance is such a dominant part of culture, it's incredible to know that God created every person born (including you) in His image because of His great love for humankind.
“By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.” –Hebrews 11:3
While I cannot understand the depth of His infinite thoughts about me, I know He has a plan and that plan does not tire Him. He does not grow weak or weary. God initiates all things divine. He merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born (Isaiah 40:28; Psalm 33:6). He wove you in your mother’s womb. He gave you the perfect body size, nose, eyes and hair color. Doesn’t it feel good to know we are fearfully and wonderfully made in His image (Psalm 139:13-14)?
“So God created man in his own image.” –Genesis 1:27a
When you turn to Jesus and make Him the Lord and Savior of your life, God creates you anew.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, and see, the new has come!” –2 Corinthians 5:17
You will never cease to be the most amazed person on earth at what God has done for you on the inside.”― Oswald Chambers
In the places where you feel less than, may you trust Him and let the power of His Holy Spirit move into your heart and make you complete. The power of His Spirit fills the void of comparison the world creates.
Holy contentment and perfect peace come from knowing God created us to be the ideal people to carry out His plan for His purpose right where He strategically places us.
The great Olympic runner Eric Liddell said, “God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.” You are who God meant you to be. His perfect love was behind every part of your unique design. When you walk confidently in your calling in Christ, may you feel His pleasure.
The Creator of all things created is worthy
"... to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased" (Revelation 4:11, NLT).
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Quarter Verse – Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Question – How do you currently see yourself? How does God see you?
Challenge – Remember who you are in God through Christ: a son or daughter wonderfully made. Share who you are in Him with the world today.
*If you read this article and aren’t in relationship with Christ yet but would like to know more, we invite you to go through FCA’s The FOUR that explains how an everlasting and fulfilling life with God is possible.
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