FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE: EMBRACING GOD’S MASTERPIECE

Have you ever asked yourself questions like “Am I considered beautiful?” “Will I ever find love?” or similar series of questions to determine your worth? If so, this is for you.

Beauty, according to the dictionary, is “a combination of qualities, such as shape, colour, or form, that pleases the aesthetic senses, especially the sight or a beautiful woman.” Why is the perception of beauty important? It is significant because it influences how we regard ourselves and others. It develops confidence, satisfaction and emphasizes long-term, significant characteristics rather than fleeting external norms.1 Peter 3:3-4 reminds us

“³Do not let your adornment be merely outward, arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel ⁴Rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.” (NKJV)

True beauty can only be identified in the heart, formed by character, humility, and a life dedicated to God. It is not enough to simply know it; it is also necessary to speak and practice it; the words that come out of our mouths are so powerful that we often forget. While the world focuses on outer beauty through the newest clothes, cosmetics, trends, and social lifestyle, God recognises the inner traits that reflect His nature because beauty is also found within.

I always told myself I was ugly, always felt attacked and bullied because of my skin colour and height, and always compared myself to others. I felt the constant need for validation, which I never got, and this went on for 9 years. Soon enough I was drowning in depression, suicidal attempts, and even self-sought validation. I lost all hope in finding love; it was like a never-ending circle of stagnation. 

It was not until 2023 that I began to appreciate true beauty, beginning with God and slowly progressing to loving who God created me to be. The journey had its challenges with occasional setbacks, but I was determined to reach the full potential of my worth by accepting who I am in Christ. I was able to project inner strength and confidence, among other things like modesty, surrounding myself with a wonderful and encouraging group of people, and believing in God’s plan for my life, which continuously makes me live with less anxiety and more contentment. Presently, I always choose to radiate gratitude and joy, alongside taking care of my body as God’s temple, which has helped to nourish my spirit.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20: “¹⁹Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? ²⁰For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” (NKJV)

Some may ask, “Did I ever find love?” Yes, a million times yes! As my journey with God continued, love filled my heart. The words of the Father are so comforting that all outside validations were the least of my problems. The only thing that mattered was to show love to others the way God keeps showing love to me. 

I know I make it appear straightforward, but truthfully, it was an extensive process that resulted in significant progress. During one of my morning devotions, I was reading the Word and came across a passage from one of Paul’s letters in which the apostle was discussing the secret of being happy even while in prison. I just sat down and related this to myself, and the phrase “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me” stuck with me.

Philippians 4:11-13: “¹¹I am not telling you this because I need anything. I have learned to be satisfied with the things I have and with everything that happens. ¹²I know how to live when I am poor, and I know how to live when I have plenty. I have learned the secret of being happy at any time in everything that happens, when I have enough to eat and when I go hungry, when I have more than I need and when I do not have enough. ¹³I can do all things through Christ because he gives me strength.” (NKJV)

You are unique (fearfully and wonderfully made) in Christ. You are a precious creation made with divine care and purpose. Your uniqueness reflects God’s meticulous creation, created for a special purpose in His big blueprint. Accept your unique characteristics, abilities, and experiences as they are woven into the magnificent tapestry of who you are in Christ. Your journey is distinguished by grace, redemption, and God’s unlimited love, making you a unique masterpiece in His sight. Celebrate your individuality as a reflection of God’s creativity and plan for your life.

Today and every day forward, speak God’s words, and remind yourself that this form of beauty does not fade with age but strengthens as you walk with Christ and witness God’s beauty in and out of your life as the fearfully and wonderfully made masterpiece of God that you are!