I’ve recently had one of those experiences that left me feeling inadequate.  It probably shouldn’t have left me feeling that way, but I let my impressions of others, and what I thought they might think of me take center stage. My emotion wasn’t based on reality, just a perception that I had of others, and how I might (or might not) fit in.

Isn’t it amazing how we often judge ourselves based on what we think others might think of us. My misconception came from how I thought I might not appear smart enough, not up to par with everyone else.  There have been moments in my life I was afraid I wouldn’t have the right appearance; my weight or my clothing or my hair wouldn’t be stylish enough.  I’ve had experiences where I thought others wouldn’t see me as “spiritual enough,” or knowledgeable enough about God and His Word.  I’ve let fear keep me from inviting people into my home because I can’t cook as well as others, or maybe what I thought would be fun, others would think is boring.

Inadequate.  Not good enough.  Too plain, too simple, too boring.  Less than.  A loser.

I am a firm believer that God created each of us uniquely and specifically.  I am creatively formed by a God who loves me and longs for me to see myself as He designed.  The Bible says we are fearfully and wonderfully made.   My head agrees: “Sure!  The human body is quite an intricate, fascinating creation!” but I find myself in those moments when I don’t translate that truth to myself specifically.  It’s hard for me to state with heart certainty “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”  I question “How wonderful am I, really?”

The circumstance that had me feeling inadequate earlier this week went off with out a hiccup.  God was faithful and I left feeling capable and worthwhile.  Even now, God is reminding my heart, not just my mind, that He created me oh so very marvelously.  He is the One who can create from nothing.  He is the One who is limitless in His imagination.  He is the One who designs for a purpose that is eternal. He is the One who made me:       just.  as.  I.  am.

Unique.  Capable.  Positive.  Energized.  Creative.  Quirky.  Fun.  A Winner.

A Princess.