Fearfully, Wonderfully—and Uniquely Made

“For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.” Psalm 139:13–15 

In a story titled, “When Can You Really Start Calling Yourself a Runner?” published by Runner’s World, writer and runner Aly Ellis shared her struggle with imposter syndrome—even after years of running experience. Growing up, she played basketball, softball, and lacrosse, and even tried fencing, but she stayed away from running because others were faster. So, she left running to them. It wasn’t until she moved to New York in her early 30s that she discovered the joy of running a 5K and began lacing up consistently.

A decade later, she’s still running. She’s completed nearly 100 races, including five marathons. She works as an editor at one of the most recognized running magazines and even cohosts a running show. Yet, despite all of that, she admits that some days, she still feels like a fraud. Surrounded by coworkers who ran competitively in school or have won races, she finds herself comparing. She describes herself as a “back-of-the-pack” or “party-pace” runner, cruising at about a 13-minute mile. She wants to improve, but doubts she’ll ever stand on a winner’s podium.

And yet—nothing excites her more than talking about running.

She recalled speaking on a panel at the New York City Marathon when a nervous runner approached her. Because she had run the race before, she was able to walk her through the course and calm her fears. Later, that runner messaged her to say she finished and had a great race. That moment helped her realize something important: while she may not share the same speed or accolades as others, she brings something different to a race, and that difference allows her to connect with people who need exactly what she has to offer.

And that’s where this hits home for us as born again believers.

Comparison is a trap. It steals joy and confidence, and it can keep us from stepping into what God has actually called us to do. But the Bible reminds us that God Himself formed us—intentionally and intricately. The phrase “skillfully wrought” speaks of detailed craftsmanship—like something carefully woven or embroidered. You were not randomly assembled. You were purposefully designed. That Old Testament truth is reinforced in the New Testament:

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 

We are His workmanship—His creation, uniquely designed for specific good works. Think about it: Aly’s “different perspective” isn’t a flaw; it’s her assignment. It’s the very thing that allows her to connect with runners who might otherwise feel overlooked or discouraged.

The same is true for us spiritually.

God creates people with different personalities, backgrounds, and life experiences so the Gospel can reach a wide range of people. If everyone were the same, many would never be reached. But God, in His wisdom, uses our differences to accomplish His purposes. If everyone were “fast,” who would relate to those just starting out? If everyone were at the front, who would walk alongside those in the middle or behind?

So, instead of comparing yourself to others, ask: Who has God uniquely equipped me to reach?

Don’t resent how you were made. Rejoice in it. Because the very thing you’re tempted to see as “less than” may be exactly what God intends to use for His glory.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, crafted with purpose and intention. Forgive me for the times I compare myself to others and lose sight of the unique way You created me. Help me to embrace who I am in You and to walk boldly in the good works You have prepared for me. Use my differences, my experiences, and even my insecurities for Your glory. Teach me to rejoice in Your design and to use it to reach others with Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Melissa Sharp is an ultra runner and running coach who has completed more than 100 marathons and ultra marathons. Melissa has learned how to keep running the race of life for the glory of Christ even though she endured decades of domestic abuse. Melissa is a survivor. Through her daily blog thejoyfilledrunner she inspires others to live in the strength of Christ.