It’s important to recognize our true value and embrace our significance in a world that often makes us feel insignificant and small. Every one of us has a unique purpose and contribution to make in this world. When we understand our true significance, as God sees us, then we have more ability and strength to pursue healthy relationships. Jeremiah 1:5 says,
“I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.
Before you were born I set you apart
and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.”
Your significance lies in how God created you, not your circumstances.
No matter what, the circumstances don’t change your significance. While this verse relates God’s assurance to Jeremiah, put your name in this verse. You might not be appointed as a prophet, but God uniquely appointed you to serve others and bring him glory.
For instance, you might be a mom of a special needs child. Through this experience, you can use what you learn to bring hope and encouragement to other moms in similar situations who feel lost and alone. In God’s eyes, you have significance and had it before you were created and born.
Whatever situation you might be in today, you always have significance.
Let’s explore three powerful reasons why you are significant, no matter your circumstances or past experiences.
1. Your Journey and Story Matter
Everyone has a unique journey and story worth sharing and celebrating. Your experiences, triumphs, and even your struggles all contribute to shaping who you are today. It’s through your story that you can inspire and connect with others. Remember, your journey is not defined by the mistakes you’ve made or the hardships you’ve faced. It’s about the lessons learned, the resilience developed, and the growth achieved.
For example, in my book “Choosing A Way Out When the Bottom Isn’t the Bottom,” I share my journey of navigating a marriage crisis, suicidal depression, and PTSD with transparency and vulnerability. My prayer in talking about these struggles is to offer hope and encouragement to others who may be going through similar difficulties. Through this story, I hope you see that there is always a way forward, even in the darkest moments.
By embracing your story, you also permit others to do the same. Your experiences can impact and inspire others, no matter how big or small. Through sharing our stories, we create a sense of connection, remind one another of our shared humanity, and honor God’s miraculous works in our lives.
Psalm 107:1-2 says,
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever.
Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out!
Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies.
2. Your Relationships and Connections Are Meaningful
As human beings, we are social creatures, and our relationships and connections with others profoundly impact our lives. Whether it’s with family, friends, colleagues, or even strangers, every interaction you have can potentially leave a lasting impression. Your words, actions, and gestures can bring those around you joy, comfort, and encouragement.
Think about the people in your life who have positively influenced you. Maybe it was a mentor who believed in your potential, a friend who stood by your side during a difficult time, or a partner who loves and supports you unconditionally. These meaningful connections remind us of our impact on others and the significance of our presence in their lives.
Even on social media, your presence can still make a difference. By sharing your thoughts, experiences, and insights, you have the power to educate, inspire, and uplift others. Engaging with authenticity and kindness online can create a positive connection.
Colossians 3:16-17 says,
Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives.
Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives.
Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.
And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks through him to God the Father.
3. Your Unique Gifts and Talents
We all have unique gifts, talents, and abilities that make us special. These qualities are like pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly into the grand design of humanity. By embracing and sharing these gifts, we can fulfill our purpose and make a meaningful impact.
When we let him, God uses your story, gifts, and abilities to serve others. Dave and I didn’t comprehend how relating the miracle God worked in our lives and marriage would bring hope and encouragement to others. But that’s precisely what happens. You simply tell the story and share what you’ve learned and applied to help you change and grow. And here’s the cool part: Dave relates the story in his style, and I in mine.
Similarly, you have talents and skills that can be used to help others and make a difference in the world. Whether it’s something as small as being a good listener or as significant as being a talented artist or musician, your gifts have the power to touch lives.
1 Peter 2:9 says,
But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people.
You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession.
As a result, you can show others the goodness of God,
for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.
As a new friend told me, significance is eternal.
We all have it. However, I struggled to grasp my significance when dealing with my husband’s porn addiction revelation and my subsequent diagnoses of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Nothing changes about significance when we face betrayal, grief, or other overwhelming circumstances. Our struggle comes in trying to grasp the reality of our significance and live it out.
It’s time to recognize and embrace your significance and strive to live an authentic, meaningful life that is true to your unique self. Your journey, story, relationships, and unique gifts all contribute to the richness of your life.
You matter to God and those around you.
I never thought telling my story publicly would help anyone. But every time I relate God’s miracle in my life and marriage, God uses it to bring fresh breath and hope to others.
If you struggle to grasp your significance, especially when dealing with the fallout from betrayal trauma, please reach out. I promise to hear your heart, listen without judgment, and help you take a fresh breath. You are always significant.
