"What Makes You You?", Part 6

 

“What Makes You You?”

(Please read the above article beforehand.)

“Your hands shaped me and made me….” (Job 10:8, emphasis added).

Part 6: Your Experiences

“No Accidents”

 

Of the unique blend of spiritual gifting, heart, abilities, personality and experiences which comprise our S.H.A.P.E. the only one not inborn is our experiences, or those events which impact our lives. These happenings involve our families, social connections, education, work, spiritual relationships and many other areas. And because they’re part of God’s plan for molding us there are no accidents. After washing His disciples’ feet Jesus said to Peter, “You do not realize what I am doing, but later you will understand.” (John 13:7). This has proven true many times in the lives of God’s people recorded in Scripture which are there to help us see His working in us (“…All those words which were written long ago are meant to teach us today….”—Romans 15:4, PH; “…We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God….”—Romans 8:28, NASB {emphasis added in both passages}).

We can benefit greatly from our experiences as we understand how they build certainty in God’s faithfulness (“God…is faithful.”—1 Corinthians 1:9); confidence in His purposes (“…What has happened…has really served to advance the gospel.”—Philippians 1 12); and character for His glory (‘…Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”—1 Corinthians 10:31). As we think long and hard about significant events in our lives God’s desire is that we profit from them (“Remember…the things {he has done}….”—Deuteronomy 11:2) as well as those of others (“These things happened to {the Israelites} as examples and were written down as warnings for us….”—1 Corinthians 10:11) and use them to help others (“As iron sharpens iron, a friend sharpens a friend.”—Proverbs 27:17, NLT). Our experiences can make us better or bitter—the choice lies with each one of us.

Our being part of the Body of Christ is no coincidence (“God…has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ.”—1 Corinthians 1:9). He has uniquely shaped and equipped us to worship, serve and fellowship together. Never forget that “It is he who has made us, and we are his….” (Psalm 100:3). And He’s made you you and me me. Let’s honor and respect His wisdom and creativity and “…offer ourselves to God….” (Romans 6:13).

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan