The likelihood of anyone else in history having the same genetic make-up as you, is zero. You’re not just another brick in the wall or another nail in the carpenter’s toolbox. God “personally formed and made” you. You’re the only “you” He created, so if you fail to be who you are His kingdom won’t benefit from your unique contribution. You’re not your parents (which is good news for some of us!) or your Uncle Jim or Aunty Johanna or somebody else you’ve been trying to please or model yourself on. It’s okay to learn from others, but always be what God called you to be. The Bible says: “Don’t compare yourself…take responsibility for doing the …best you can with your…life” (Gal 6:4-5).

The question is: Who are you? Before you answer it, you must ask yourself this: “What are my strengths?” Do you enjoy working with computers, or cars, or animals? Maybe you’re an adept people-manager, or you like fixing things, or you’re good with finances. Paul says, “God…has made us what we are”. Are there certain jobs that come easily to you and you wonder why others can’t do them? If so, that says something about your particular strengths and your God-given assignment in life. God said of Bezalel the builder, “I have filled him with… wisdom…He is a master craftsman, expert in working with gold, silver, and bronze. He is skilled in engraving…mounting gemstones…carving wood” (Ex 31:3-5). Once you’ve identified what makes your eyes sparkle and your pulse race – go for it! “Fix your eyes on what lies before you…Don’t get sidetracked” (Pr 4:25-27). 
 Paul writes concerning the family of God, “Each one of you is a separate and necessary part”. But in order to determine where you fit in, it helps to know yourself. For example, what kind of working environment brings out the best in you? Do you thrive on routine? Are you motivated by other people’s needs? Do you enjoy tackling challenges that discourage others? The Bible says, “God shaped each person in turn,” which means you’re not supposed to be a carbon copy. And how about your relationships? Do you enjoy being part of a team, or do you function better alone? If you only come to life around people, you’ll probably be miserable sitting in front of a computer all day. What lights your fire? In the movie Chariots of Fire, Eric Liddell described his zeal for running in these words: “God made me to be fast, and when I run I feel His pleasure.” What makes you feel like that?

There’s a story about a man who was asked if he could play the violin. “I don’t know, I’ve never tried!” he replied. When you think about it, it’s a wise enough answer, because until you’ve tried something how do you know whether or not you’d be any good at it? For instance, a frog may be a great swimmer but it’s a lousy flier. Some of us whose heroes are “birds,” walk around feeling bad about ourselves because we can’t fly. You’re not supposed to! God’s Word says, “Be content with who you are” (1Pe 5:6). Stop flapping around out there and give yourself permission to be the person God made you to be!