Isaiah 43:1

The truth is, I all too often feel like I'm "less."

Less than worthwhile, less than attractive, less than desirable. I feel like I am less than a friend, less than a brother, less than a dear one. I feel like I am a passing wind, or a loose fire. That I will burn away and then be gone. I feel impermanent and inconspicuous.

I'm told so many things by others. That I'm not fit to lead, that I'm unwise or unreliable. I'm told that I'm unattractive or just not interesting enough. I may be a fun guy, but just not the one you want to follow, to trust, or to love.

There are those who only seek me out when they have no other options, or while they're waiting on something "better" to come along. I know when they're feeling alone because it's the only time I'll hear from them.

But here's the thing. The liar I can't stand, the one who is nothing but disrespectful and who cheapens me

is me.

I tell myself the worst things, and I repeat them like a mantra. I'm not good enough. But skinny enough. Not smart enough. Not suave enough.

"But He who formed you, Oh Jacob, who formed you, oh Israel."

There is one who speaks truth. One who sees my worth and my value. One who sees into my very soul. The One who knows my darkest nights and bleakest desires. The One who says I am worthy, even when all else says I am not. The One who says I am desired, even when I am buried in the grave of my own self hatred. When my tomb of despair is shut, there is One who will blast open the doors and declare the light into the dark places.
I am Yours, I am precious in Your sight.