My sister and I were out for a walk recently, and we passed an amazing mural painted on the side of a building. It’s not the style of art I’m usually attracted to, but everything about it was a bit awe-inspiring. I used it as a backdrop not only because the color and form were beautiful, but it brought to my mind the verse about us being “God’s masterpiece.”

   

“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

Created by God

God created each one of us as a unique “masterpiece.” We are made in His image, so how could we be anything but magnificent?  He carefully crafted all our parts: physical, emotional, and spiritual. God does not take any shortcuts or get lazy in his creation.  We are made with outstanding workmanship!   When you look at yourself in the mirror, who do you see? Or maybe I should ask, what do you see? Do you see yourself as a “masterpiece”?

What God Says About You

As soon as I started writing, I was flooded with verses that affirm how God sees us (disclaimer- please don’t think I am some major bible scholar- bits of verses come to my mind and I look them up):

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14.

“Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

“He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17b.

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion…” Philippians 1:6

“…We are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord…” 2 Corinthians 3:18.

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1.

Thy Word is Truth

It’s sometimes hard for me to see myself as someone who gives God delight or reflects the likeness of Jesus, but he tells us these things are true and much more.

Does He really rejoice over me with a song? Yes, he does! Cement that picture in your mind and heart.

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God Sees Me

Living our lives in Jesus’ love and forgiveness makes us worthy.  The sinful nature I see does not have the final word.  God looks at me and sees none of the mess, only a forgiven daughter.

My heart knows how much I am loved by God just as I am. There are times, however, when I think of my faults or remember things I’ve said and done, and I wish I was a better person, or have the qualities of someone else.

Do you realize where those thoughts are coming from? They are little whispers from Satan that try to pull us down and doubt our worth. He can be subtle and crafty and he’s really good at what he does. He only wants to draw us further away from God’s love and acceptance.

He’s been at it since the Garden of Eden. He spoke to Eve and sowed doubt about God’s intention in her mind.  He knows where our insecurities lie and he takes full advantage.

When self-doubt and shame creep in, we need to use all the words of affirmation that God has given us to silence those whispers.

Your Identity in Christ

God’s Word and Jesus’ sacrifice tell us that we are beautiful, worthy, accepted, desired, beloved, and chosen.

Replace the lies of Satan with the power of God’s Word!

“Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” Ephesians 6:10

God didn’t put us together haphazardly. He created us as his beloved children. He has a unique plan for each one of us: to “do the good things he planned for us long ago.“ Our emotions, talents, even what we perceive as our shortcomings can all be used for good.

Reflection:

Look in the mirror and see yourself as God sees you. You truly are God’s Masterpiece! If you can’t see it, why not?

Do you have any favorite verses of God’s affirmation that give you encouragement? Try to memorize one of them this week.

Blessings!

AnnMarie

Photo Credit: AnnMarie Anderson