ONE OF A KIND
In 1964, my friend Jeff strutted into our classroom, his face beaming. Gathering around him, we drooled with envy as he pulled something from his satchel. A book—not just any book— The Quality of Courage, written by my idol, Mickey Mantle, centerfielder for the New York Yankees. The next day, I purchased my own copy, and pored through it, like a starving man consuming a steak. Eventually, I packed it away in a box of memorabilia.
Last week I came across it. Just for fun, I checked out its value on eBay. Imagine my shock at discovering this fifty-cent paperback was valued at $900! What changed its worth? One simple detail I failed to mention. In 1968, I met Mickey Mantle and he autographed it. Mickey’s signature set the volume apart—transforming it from plain and common into a one-of-a-kind treasure.
The same is true of us. In our world today, it’s easy to feel insignificant and ordinary— like a worn-out book at a yard sale— of little value. But according to scripture, God writes his signature across each of our lives, propelling our value into the stratosphere. Psalm 139:14 states, “I will give thanks to you because I have been so amazingly and miraculously made” (GW). The Hebrew word translated “amazingly” means “distinct; separated; distinguished.” “Miraculously” is defined as “beyond human power.” That’s you. A one-of-a-kind masterpiece, uniquely created by the Almighty.
When we see ourselves through God’s eyes, as his masterpiece, it changes the way we live. No longer do we eke out our existence in mediocrity. We are God’s treasured possession. Based on that truth, how should we move through life? Not as ordinary slobs—but walking in purity; living in holiness; animated in unparalleled uniqueness. Ephesians 4:1 commands us to “walk holy, in a way that is suitable to your high rank, given to you in your divine calling” (TPT). We can hold our heads high, understanding God created us for greatness—for a unique call.
I don’t plan on selling my copy of The Quality of Courage. I reverentially returned it to its box. It helps me remember what a great player my deceased hero was. But more importantly, it reminds me of how much my Father values me. I am his one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Principle: You and I are God’s one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Ponder:
When you really understand this principle, how does it change your life in a practical way?
What prevents you from seeing yourself as God does, as his unique treasure?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Psalm 139.
Prayer: “Dear Lord, in our harsh world, it’s so easy to believe that we don’t matter. Help me see myself as you see me—as your unique creation.”
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