You Are A Unique Creation of God - Part 1

"When you live to please yourself, circumstances that God designs to teach you to trust and obey Him instead become temptations for you to fear and worry." - John C. Broger

In this first installment, I'd like to expound on a critical, but little talked-about quality which God desires for you and I: individuality. As you shall see, it is vitally necessary as it pertains to our relationship with God.

First, here's how individuality is defined in the dictionary. It is, "the particular character, or aggregate of qualities, that distinguishes one person or thing from others; sole and personal nature."

He doesn't want us to all be clones who think, act, and talk alike. What he wants for you may be completely different than what he wants for me. That means that each of us must strive to be what God yearns for us to be.

This, however, isn't going to happen by itself. We will have to struggle vigorously on a daily basis to achieve it. We know how challenging this can because we are surrounded by many negative influences which have the power to trip us up.

Those who have given in to worldly appetites would like nothing more than to have you join their ranks. Gratefully, God has not left us in the lurch. There are some things which we can implement to help us become "our own person" in Him. Philippians 4:8 offers some excellent advice to start with.

God wants us to think about things that are true, noble or honest, right or just, pure, lovely, admirable, virtuous and praiseworthy. Additionally, we should consider His holiness, greatness, and goodness (Psalm 33:5). Don't worry about what? how? and why? If you need help with this, ask God.

He wants us to see or recognize "good" things in others, while overlooking their faults and failures. Yet, we must always be mindful of our own (1 Peter 4:8). Also, look for ways to help others. Offering a helping hand to someone in need. Don't dwell on the difficulty of the situation, but focus on the opportunity to serve instead (Hebrews 12:15).

The Spirit of God works within our hearts to guide and strengthen us in our daily struggle against the "world". But it doesn't end there. We also possess the Spirit of Truth to assist you and I discern what is truthful, or not (1 John 4:4-6). Until next time when we continue our discussion, may God bless you!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14:7; Isaiah 55:8; 1 Corinthians 12:20; Matthew 10:30; Luke 9:23

Prayer: Dear God, though we are all individuals with our own trials and tribulations; times of joy and celebrations, the one common bond we share is that we are your children, and You are Our Holy Father. May we live with this in hearts always. Amen

Have a blessed day!

Gretchen