Day 28 of 31: Press Toward a Different Spirit
"Well, that's different!" I remember the tone- the scrunched up look on my teacher's face as she evaluated my work then delivered her verdict. I really can't say it got any better when I grew up. I remember meeting with a decorator and by the end of our consultation, she described my style as "eclectic" - decorator talk for different. When you're in elementary school- aw heck- even as adults, we don't want to be different. And yet, it's one of God's greatest gifts to us: our uniqueness.
I love that scripture says Caleb had a "different spirit." He and Joshua went into the Promised Land and saw God's favor when others saw giants. Mary's different spirit compelled her to sit at Jesus' feet even when pressured to be more productive. Peter wasn't the only one in the boat but his different spirit challenged him to get out of the boat and walk on the water. A different spirit gives us a unique perspective.
God loves when we embrace our "different." Caleb received an inheritance. When Jesus came to town, he asked for Mary. I would love for Jesus to arrive in Atlanta and ask, "Where's Donna? He entrusted Peter with a powerful ministry, even with a few bumps along the way.
I heard it put this way once and it stuck with me: Remember, you were created to do you. No one else can do you. So if you don't do you, then you doesn't get done. And if you doesn't get done then things that should've gotten done are undone. So do you!
Reflection: What did God put uniquely in you? Do you embrace it or try to hide/ignore it?
Prayer: Father, God, My Creator, you call me your workmanship. You say I am created in Christ for good works that you prepared before I was born. Show me the uniqueness you placed in me to accomplish those good works. Breathe on me Your different spirit and bring mine to life. In Jesus' name, Amen. (Ephesians 2:10 ESV)
JUST FOR FUN BONUS: This song is one of my favs. It talks about our differences and how "there ain't nothin' wrong with that." Turn it up and do your own different dance! (I do it about once a week!) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2C3b1fmMmKM