Sole Dance–How to Please An Audience of One

There are many types of dance that cannot be done alone. Imagine a finely dressed gentleman attempting to Foxtrot without a partner, or a graceful lady waltzing around a ballroom floor alone!  Life is filled with occasions that require more than one individual to do the exact same thing or display the same behavior as those around him.  But when it comes to our individual gifts from God, our distinct personalities or our physical attributes, our lives should be lived as a dance for One. To do anything contrary is to live in a cycle of comparisons that lead to insecurity, jealousy, envy, and pride.

There is a beautiful example of how God sees each of us individually, and we only need to look up to see it on display in the heavens above. The sun, moon, and stars are all glorious in their own way, differing in appearance and purpose. But they are all necessary and beautifully thought out by the Creator:

The sun is glorious in one way, the moon is glorious in another way, and the stars are glorious in their own [distinctive] way; for one star differs from and surpasses another in its beauty and brilliance.  1 Corinthians 15:41

We live in a world that screams the opposite of what God says to us softly–that we are uniquely loved by Him. We often get caught in a dance of comparisons with others … it is a natural tendency. But this dance only steals our joy and keeps us discontent, searching for something we cannot attain while we could be enjoying who we are and pointing others to Christ in unique ways.

Oftentimes, others who know us well see great qualities and gifts that we possess when we may not see them so clearly. Perhaps talking with a trusted friend or family member will help you focus on God-given abilities and gifts unique to you!

In what ways do you struggle with comparisons? What scriptures can you use to remind you of  God’s unique love for you?