Embrace Your Uniqueness to Glorify God

Masterpiece

“Repeat after me. I am a unique, unrepeatable, miracle of God,”  I said, drawing each word out for emphasis in the sermon introduction when filling in for my husband once. These words describe a masterpiece. I was referring to Eph. 2:10 where it tells us we’re God’s workmanship. Workmanship means masterpiece. I wanted listeners to grasp how each one of us are unique. We’re unrepeatable, and we’re a miracle of God. Doesn’t that make you feel special and appreciate our Creator? It sure does me.

A few years back, I read Francis Chan’s book, Crazy Love. I’m not sure of the exact number but in it, he pointed out there are over 300 types of laughs among people. Isn’t that incredible? We really are unique. Why is it then we spend so much time ignoring our uniqueness and try to fit in? I mean, have you ever thought about how much we try to wear the most fashionable clothing, newest hair styles, certain car styles and models, right down to home decor and design. We use popular slang and terminology, buy clothes at the same stores, and the list goes on. Let’s face it, we want to fit in with others.

Feeling Like an Outsider

The truth is, the harder I try to fit in, the flatter I fall on my face. Every time I think about it, I feel like an outsider everywhere other than my family. Sorry if this honesty surprises you, but bear with me. You might see yourself too.

• I don’t fit in with the blind population because those born blind don’t know colors or have the visual memories. Many partially sighted see more than myself so don’t understand my struggles.
• I don’t fit in at church. As a leader, I must set an example. I can’t let my guard down completely. Be friendly, but don’t get too close as a rule.
• I don’t fit in with women pastors. They preach and teach adults regularly. I teach children mostly. I can’t study to the same depth either.
• I don’t fit in with homeschool moms. They usually have large families and cook from scratch. I taught one student, had an education degree, and cook items from a box.
• I don’t even fit in with most women. Shopping for purses, shoes, and accessories isn’t my cup of tea. Getting my nails done isn’t in my vocabulary.

Well, the list could go on and on, but by now, your mind should be rolling with some of the ways you feel like an outsider. Did you know you don’t have to imitate to fit in? No, you don’t. It’s possible to change our focus. Focus on how you already belong (or fit in), rather than on how you don’t.

Fitting into Your Uniqueness

This allows us to fit in and embrace our uniqueness at the same time. Realize you already belong instead of believing you don’t. I DO fit in!

• I fit in with the blind and the visually impaired. We use many of the same tools and techniques. Our eyes might not have perceived the world exactly the same, or at the same age, but all of us know what types of mishaps these misperceptions can cause.
• I fit in with my church because we all meet each other’s needs through prayer and encouragement. Love and support is the name of the game.
• I fit in with lady pastors because I know what it’s like for God to divinely inspire, or give revelation knowledge, along with the burden to teach or preach it. I know the fear of bringing  forth God’s Word, taking seriously the responsibility of not misrepresenting it in any form or  fashion.
• I fit in with home school moms. I understand it’s a calling and ministry in its own right. I know the frustrations of wearing two hats (teacher/mother), the financial sacrifices, and the tears  from feeling continuously inadequate. Every home school parent also knows the lonely battle of  living their convictions when family and community don’t understand or agree.

Remember you are unrepeatable anyway. Let that sink in.

As a kaleidoscope forms a unique picture with each turn. God has created each of us as “one of a kind”. YOU are part of the beauty I see every day. Relax . . . and embrace your uniqueness to fulfill His purpose.

I appreciate your taking time to stop by during your busy day. I hope this encouraged you in some manner. If it made you feel better, please share it with your friends and/or give a donation.

Are there times where it is harder to embrace your uniqueness? Do you think this technique of changing your focus from thoughts of not fitting in to fitting in will prevent you from changing your behaviors instead?  Please share with us in the comments below.

© 2023, Jena Fellers. All rights reserved.