Too often we expect the most from ourselves. We try to be like everyone else – to fit in – be part of the crowd – support issues that are popular – wear the right clothes – follow a pattern that might take us down some unwanted rabbit hole and lead to more problems. Instead, maybe it’s time to start thinking about who you really are. You were created by God through joining of two human cells. There is no one in the world that can claim your DNA. You were a gift to your parents and they had a big part in shaping your personality and thinking. When you grew into a young adult, you became more independent, with your own thoughts and goals surpassing those of the family you came from. Under their care and supervision, you received a foundation for your own life.

You’ve experienced successes and failures and learned from both of those things. You began to realize the whole universe did NOT revolve around you stepped outside your shell to discover the needs of others. You became a friend, a confidante, a mentor, a teacher, counselor, spiritual guide and encourager. Each of those attributes have and will continue to shape you throughout your life, when you trust that God has an amazing plan for you.

Failures can crush us and push us into a downward spiral, but we can also learn from our mistakes. When I was a kid, I was much of an athlete, but I loved to write and I nurtured that passion through my years. I made stupid choices as a young adult. I often followed the trends rather than thinking about the consequences. I didn’t always take responsibility for my actions. I began to feel like a failure. My self confidence took a giant hit, but it didn’t destroy me. I used those experiences to encourage others and let them know that there was someone to turn to when we mess up.

Life is not easy, but when we put it into perspective, it can be so rewarding. Instead of looking at yourself as unredeemable, think of what a loving God you have. He loves you so much that He made it possible for you to eventually wind up in heaven and live with Him eternally. He asked nothing in return except that you follow Him. His hands are reaching out to us – the same hands that were pierced with iron spikes. His arms are stretched out to us as they were spread out on an instrument of torture for our sake. His resurrected body is proof that He overcame death, so that we could do the same. If He, the Prince of Peace and King of the Universe, loves us that much is proof that we are special to Him. Never forget it!