Made in His image

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. Psalm 139:14

When I cook something special or have guests coming over, I cook differently under the situation. I am cautious with the measurements. I pay closer attention to the timing and monitor the heat closely. I do it fearfully. Why? Do I fear cooking? No. I enjoy it more. That is why I pay extra attention in such occasions. I want the dish to be perfect. I want it to be wonderful. And that is how God wanted it when He created you and me – wonderful, and He did it fearfully. 

What faults did you find in yourself when you looked into the mirror today? As you dressed up for the day, did you wish your hair was straighter, waist slimmer, height taller, and skin fairer? When you look at someone else, do you wish you had what they have? Do you think the colour of their eye is better? Do you envy their voice and wish you had the talents they have? 

Let me remind you, God, whose works are marvellous and perfect, made you. He spoke and bought everything into existence. But when He wanted to make you, He stooped down, got His hands into the dirt and designed you in His image and likeness. When your substance was unknown, He knew your future. He knew your ambitions and desires. He knew the decisions you would make and the path you would take. When no one knew you, He knit you in your mother’s womb. He placed His lips on yours and breathed life into you. 

Saint Augustine rightly said, “Men go abroad to wonder at the heights of mountains, at the huge waves of the sea, at the long courses of the rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars, and they pass by themselves without wondering.” 

As you look into the mirror today, let me help you remember that no one in the entire universe has your eyelashes. You do not have your mother’s hair or your father’s nose; You do not have your grandmother’s voice or your grandfather’s height. You may appear like them, but you are God’s unique masterpiece. Next time you want to complain about yourself, pause. Remember your maker. He is worthy of praise, for He took time to make you – fearfully and wonderfully. 

Prayer: Father, thank you that You fearfully and wonderfully made me in your image and likeness. My soul knows that I am Your masterpiece, unique and loved by
You. Forgive me for each time I have found faults in my being. I repent of these feelings. Help me understand my uniqueness and remind me of my identity in You. I praise you for creating me. Marvellous are Your works. In Jesus’ name. Amen.