Uniqueness

 

I was pleasantly reminded over the last few days that we as human beings are not simply/primarily a body, emotions, relationships, or even spiritual. The Bible identifies summarily three general areas in 1 Thessalonians 5:23, “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Certainly, God is interested in the importance of sanctifying and preserving the entire person (spirit, soul, and body) until the return of Jesus Christ. God faithfully transforms every believer’s complete being rendering us holy and sanctified…blameless.

Another familiar passage teaches a similar contention, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow [body], and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Heb. 4:12). God’s Word is deciphering and transformative able to penetrate deeply into our personal being revealing our true thoughts and intentions. Again, the human spirit, soul, and body or targeted by God. Through this mere sampling of passages, we see God zero in on human complexity embracing our spiritual, physical, psychological, philosophical, and relational makeup.

We are indeed complex creatures, and our individual uniqueness should scarcely be reduced to one factor or a few attributes. Yes, God created each one of us with incredible complexity even stating we exist in His very image (Gen. 1:26-27). This implies spiritual, moral, intellectual, and a relational orientation for humanity encompassing everything we have suggested before. In addition from God's perspective, there is intentionality, purpose, design, meaning, significance and a grand plan that each of us must discover and explore to execute our specific role. God counts on each believer to fulfill a role and purpose in His plan. 

I realize such categories make it easier to study/explore an area, explain our intricacies, identify certain behavior patterns, but obviously none of these 'pigeonholes' are comprehensive or final independent of the others. We cannot afford to dumb people down to certain desirable qualities for a position or to regard as a certain temperament type. The fact that we are a complexity and not a simplicity is messy, but messy is closer to reality! It is true that there is absolutely no one like you in the world...for all time! There are similarities to be clear, but unique still...unlike anyone else essentially.

Your uniqueness makes you different, special, and carries with it certain dignities, responsibilities, and potential. Distinctiveness, individuality, and authenticity may even feel a little bit lonely at times, but it remains true never-the-less. I personally believe we are compelled to live in relationship with God to understand and execute our part of any mission. The more real that relationship is the less alone we may feel most of the time. His companionship becomes central and essential to a complete life of service.

Yes, I am learning to cherish more the uniqueness of each person in new and sometimes challenging ways. Resisting more the temptations to favor a few qualities, categories, or stereotypes are a never-ending challenge for me. Perhaps this is old news for you or maybe a pleasant reminder…and possibly the first time you have ever thought about this subject in this way. But it’s a 'wonderful' journey...never-the-less. I am grateful for the singularity of YOU.