Today I was at the beach as the weather is getting warmer, and our boys decided it was a good day to swim. Beaches are definitely places where one sees the different shapes and sizes of those around us.
Short and tall, young and old, those who have spent most of the winter months working out at the gym, and those whom my kids describe as a little “fluffy” around the edges.
There are the loud and the shy, those who confidently “strut their stuff” along the sand, and those who hold onto their towels as long as possible before quickly running into the waiting waves.
The wonderful thing is that God has made each of us unique. There’s nobody else like me, and there is nobody else like you. And in a world that seeks to categorise and shape everyone to look, talk, dress, and live out their beliefs and faith in certain models and frameworks, it's refreshing to be reminded that God loves uniqueness.
He is the one who shaped us; to look at how we do physically and to be wired toward particular interests, talents, passions, and abilities.
Our visit to the beach today reminded me once again how important it is to love and enjoy the “skin we’re in”. There is no point in trying to be someone else and whilst we can admire and be inspired by others, it's important to keep perspective and not feel less than what we should. Being part of the wider community is great when we are encouraged, lifted up, and not left feeling resentful or comparing our life to somebody else.
Our internal and external shape is created specifically for God’s plan and purpose for our lives. He has wired each of us to experience, contribute, and enjoy life uniquely us.
It feels good and makes God smile when we “get happy” with ourselves and seek to grow into the best “us” we can be. He is a loving Father, and just as parents delight to see their children discovering who they are and using and enjoying their gifts and abilities, our Heavenly Father does too.
Today, enjoy the “skin you’re in”; keep discovering and exploring all that God has wired you to be. And next time you are at the beach, why not “throw your towel to the wind,” don’t bother with what anyone else looks like or thinks (why should you care) and go make a big splash!
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you” (Jeremiah 1:5)
“O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up, you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path, and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.” (Psalm 139)
Prayer: Lord, thank you for knowing me and making me unique and special. Please help me embrace all you have made me be, and enjoy the journey. In Jesus' Name Amen.