God made you different

Everybody has a personality. Some people are outgoing and can talk to almost anyone. Others are quiet and would rather listen. Some make decisions quickly, while others take their time. Some enjoy a crowd, while others would rather sit with one or two close friends. We are not all wired the same, and I do not think that is an accident.

Psalm 139:13–14 says, “For You created my innermost parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, because I am awesomely and wonderfully made.” 

God formed each of us, and he did not make us all exactly alike. That does not mean every habit or weakness we have came from God, but it does mean our differences are not something we should be ashamed of.

Those differences can be useful. A quiet person may notice what a louder person misses. A cautious person may keep others from making a foolish decision. A bold person may step forward when everyone else is afraid. A patient person may calm a difficult situation, while someone with more energy may get things moving.

The problem comes when we use personality as an excuse for bad behavior. We have all heard someone say, “That is just the way I am.” Sometimes that may explain something, but it does not always excuse it. A direct person does not have the right to be rude. A strong-willed person does not have the right to control everyone. An easygoing person cannot use that as an excuse for laziness.

Our personality may help explain how we respond to life, but it should never become a shield we hide behind. Christ does not erase our personality when we come to him. He changes the parts of us that need changing. A naturally impatient person can learn patience. A harsh person can learn gentleness. A fearful person can grow in courage.

Galatians 5:22–23 tells us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” 

Those qualities should begin showing in every believer, no matter what kind of personality we have.

We also need to stop expecting everyone else to act like we do. Romans 12:4 reminds us that all the parts of the body do not have the same function. God uses different people in different ways, and that is a good thing. We need people who think differently, notice different things, and bring different strengths to the table.

There is freedom in understanding that God did not make everybody the same. You do not have to become someone else to be useful to Him, but you also should not use your personality as an excuse to stay exactly as you are.

God made you different, but he is still working on you. The goal is not to become like everyone else. The goal is to become more like Christ.

To contact Dean or share your own thoughts, email othersideofamen@gmail.com. You can read more at theothersideofamen.com.