You are the one who created my innermost parts;
you knit me together while I was still in my mother’s womb.
I give thanks to you that I was marvelously set apart.
Your works are wonderful—I know that very well. Psalm 139: 13-14
Life is full of peaks and valleys. The peaks are joyful, and the view is beautiful up on the top. It is easy to see the blessings and to be full of gratitude. The valleys on the other hand can feel restricting and the view is blocked by the steep valley walls. The ability to see the blessings becomes harder which then allows room for self-doubt to creep in.
I recently entered a valley and I became disappointed with myself and began to think of all the ways I had let people down, how I hadn’t done my best job, and I began to focus on all my weaknesses. The self-doubt was creeping in; but then I remembered that every part of me, my strengths, and my weaknesses, were created by God and I was wonderfully made. With this reassurance, I began to climb out of the valley.
These times are challenging and challenging us to learn new ways and new things. It can be exhausting, exciting, and rewarding. Working towards mastery while learning something new can cause frustration and self-doubt and we can quickly find ourselves in the valley.
Next time you’re in the valley, give yourself some grace. God already has. Remember that every part of you was created by God and God’s works are wonderful.
Loving and gracious God, we often find ourselves questioning our worth forgetting that you created us, and your works are wonderful and therefore we are of value. Forgive us. Help us to remember that we are unique and have much to offer to others in your honor. Thank you for your steadiness and presence when we are on the top of the peak or when we have entered the valley. We pray all this in your name. Amen
Marty