There is only one you, created by God for His purpose.

Written by Desiree Bustamante

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10

From afar these trees seem very much alike. They appear similar in height, coloring, tree trunk girth, and cascading branches. However, if you look closely you might see scars on the trunk, one tree leaning more than another, or that the branches vary in length, shape, and number. They might appear the same until you approach them. That’s when you see how distinctly different they really are.

God created us to be unique even though we live in a vast sea of humanity. We may feel rather generic, or lacking, if we compare ourselves to everyone else, but when He chose us as His own He also gave us an exclusive blend of gifts and abilities. Gifts, and abilities, created in us to serve Him and those He places in our path.

Since we have been consecrated by God in this way, we have a threefold purpose:

• Recognize that our Creator endowed us with a singular set of gifts
• Discover what those gifts are and how they can be used for Him
• Appreciate that God designed distinctive characteristics for each person

However, just knowing what God has created in us isn’t enough. We must use our gifts, talents, and abilities to bless others. When we do this, we acknowledge that He is God, and we are his workmanship, created to do good works because of our faith in Christ Jesus.

If you know what your gifts are, then this serves as a reminder to continue using them for His kingdom. If you’re not sure what unique set of gifts are yours, then seek out His purpose and plan for your life. God longs to reveal them to you through the Holy Spirit, so you may honor Him and His kingdom.

The next time you see people who seem all the same, look closely for the personalized attributes God has bestowed on all His people. Appreciate that we have a mighty, and amazing, God who created each one of us for a special purpose.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado