You Definitely Matter

It's easy to be self-deprecating in regard to one's own significance. We may feel that if we don't possess wealth, power, or fame, that we have no influence with others. Don't be deceived. Someone somewhere is looking to you as their guide. You expect to be able to hold sway over your spouse, your children, and perhaps some assorted extended family members; but more than likely you make an impact on others you feel you have no significant connection with.

Cut yourself some slack. Realize your own uniqueness. Unless you're an identical twin, no one else on earth can compare to you. Rather, think of yourself as an "original-one-of-a-kind." You've been designed by God to make your own distinct difference in the world.

Consider Jeremiah 29: 11, which is one of my personal favorites: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." God sent this message to his people during their Babylonian captivity, but I don't think it's taking it out of context to use it as a morale booster. I think he feels the same way about His children today.

Consider Galatians 6: 4-5 which says, "Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load." I think it's fine and good to have positive role models. I have a few of my own. However, God made only one me and I have to make my own mark on society. I don't want to be "just like" anyone, really. I want to be the best "sokmnkee" I can be. Who have your role models been and why? Consider both the good and bad ones and the gravity of their influence on you. Also, what would you do to make a difference in the world if you had unlimited time and resources? For instance, I always thought that if I were ever rich that lots of people would get fed, clothed, sent to school, have their medical bills paid, and a roof over their heads. I say that because I know how much it takes my family to get by--not very much.

Gratitude's Role:

Gratitude is a primary key to achieving personal happiness. Thankful people are more joyful, healthier, less stressed, more optimistic, and more likely to express benevolence.

Gratitude comes from the word, "grace." The more of it you cultivate yourself, the more of it you will willingly bestow on others.

Gratitude begets humility. The Masai tribe of West Africa has an unusual way of expressing thanks. They say, "My head is in the dirt." They then put their foreheads on the ground to show their gratitude with humility. Read the following and ponder these the next time you feel insignificant: Mt. 18:4; 23:12; Phil. 2:3-8; Titus 3:2; and 1 Pet. 5:5. You may not feel worth anything due to your own humble station in life, but that's not how God sees you.

Love Ya,

God Bless!