Most Important of All

There is a 11/10 chance that when I get around a new group of people, I'm going to make an awkward joke or comment just to ease the tension. There's also a 11/10 chance that no one will think it was funny. I'm an awful communicator in relationships, but a very emotional, logically-driven thinker. I'm grumpier than I should be in the mornings... and my hair always seems to be standing at attention when I wake up. I've always weighed more than I should, but still fall to temptations of drinking yet another Dr. Pepper. I usually don't show my appreciation as often as I should, and sometimes, I get road rage and one of my fingers "slips".

I should probably pray more and worry less. I should probably be kinder to strangers and lessen my amounts of complaints. I should probably exercise frequently and save more from my paycheck. I should probably be less hard headed and more open to taking advice from others.

The list of my flaws or the things I could work on could continue for miles. For me (and maybe for you) it seems easier to list out the things we wish we could change about ourselves. Maybe you wish you were taller, had a smaller nose, didn't laugh so loud, or were better at putting your thoughts into words. Maybe you wish you could change your circumstances or experiences. Maybe you have regrets.

Too often, we find ourselves looking at our "flaw" list. Too often, we find ourselves wishing for change.

What do you like about yourself? I challenge you to think of 5 things. Right now. Do it.. and don't sell yourself short. In fact.. make a list.

James 1:17-19

"Everything good comes from God. Every perfect gift is from him. These good gifts come down from the Father who made all the lights in the sky. But God never changes like the shadows from those lights. He is always the same. God decided to give us life through the true message he sent to us. He wanted us to be the most important of all that he created."

This verse comes in the passage of James about Trials and Temptations. You might be reminded of the verse that tells you to "consider it pure joy when you face many trials". I love the translation of this specific scripture that says "He wanted us to be the most important of all that he created."

I'm not going to preach to you that God loves you... because I hope you know how much he does.

But.. do you love you? Do you love yourself like God loves you? Do you consider yourself worthy? Uniquely made? Important? Wonderfully made? Special?

Do another challenge for me... Just one more. Make a list of things you think God loves about you. Include gifts, talents, and traits that God has given you.

Is it longer than the one you originally made? Is it the same length?

Again and again, I have found myself highlighting my flaws, but always forgetting to highlight my strengths. Over and over, I have been so hard on myself.

Photo by Dare to Aim Photography

Time after time, I found myself struggling between thinking that loving who I am was being selfish.

But it isn't.

I have worked so incredibly hard to be the person I am today. I have worked through countless battles, experiences, opportunities, regrets, celebrations, and lessons learned.. and I'm so young! Throughout my lifetime, I will work through countless more, asking God to shape me and mold me to his favor.

It is important to remind ourselves the areas that we can improve upon to help our character develop in a positive way.. but remember it is equally important to love yourself. Both your quirky flaws and unique characteristics make up who you are. In God's eyes, you're one of the most important beings in His creation.

Ever feel like you're doubting yourself? Create those lists.