Jesus Wants You

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10, NIV).

We all have favorites. Favorite cookies, favorite actors, favorite restaurants, favorite pastors, favorite outfits, favorite speakers, and so much more. One of my favorite cookies is an Oreo. Since its inception as a cookie, there have been so many brands who have attempted to develop their own “knock-off” version. And you know what? None of them are as good.

There are no knock-offs that live up to original Oreos. And if that’s true of Oreos, how much truer is that of every single one of us? It might seem like I’m reaching with this concept, but if we apply this take to any of our favorite things, I bet you’d find yourself agreeing with me.

A few months ago I listened to a guest pastor at a local church, and within minutes, it was clear, whether intentionally or not, he was trying to imitate the lead pastor who teaches regularly. While I love the lead pastor, I don’t need or want another one of him. I wanted this guest pastor to have his own identity as a speaker, not try to take on the identity of someone else. 

There is only one Oreo.

There is only one Denzel Washington.

There is only one McDonald’s (love it or hate it.)

There was only one C.S. Lewis.

My point is this–Jesus wants you. And there is only one you. 

This is a truth I’m having to remind myself of often these days. As I’ve prayed about and sought wisdom in the area of writing, speaking, and sharing God’s Word, I’ve reminded myself of the truth found in Ephesians 2:10: For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Though Jesus doesn’t need any of us, He wants us. He chooses us. And He has amazingly good works planned and prepared in advance for us to do. When we cling to this truth, we can step out in faith, and not be held back by fear. Where is God calling you to step out in faith?

When the comparison game pops up, or we find ourselves thinking there are already enough people doing what we’re doing, may we be reminded that God has been preparing us for what He has prepared for us. It’s up to us to say yes, step out in faith, and do everything for His glory.

There is only one me. 

And there is only one you.

But Jesus wants us. 

We are His favorite.

He knows us. 

He could count every hair on our head. 

He has good works planned for us to do.

Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Amen.