……..Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, Before you were born I sanctified you, I ordained you a Prophet to the nations…..(Jer.1:5)

For the past nine weeks, we have been looking at the various things that make us unique and special as individuals. We have looked at the fact that God has a specific purpose for every one of us to fulfill here on earth. He knew us and ordained us for specific purposes to fulfill here on earth.. We have also mentioned that the passion of our hearts and our potentials are part of what makes us unique. What you have a passion for, is not the same as what someone else would have a passion for. Someone for instance, might be passionate about looking after sick people, for another it could be animals and so on. Further more, Your potentials talk of your innate abilities, your gifts and your talents. that have been specially placed inside you by God to use for His glory.

Another aspect of our lives that make us unique is our Personality. Our personality talks of our unique behavioural and emotional make up and qualities. This however does not mean sinful habits or tendencies. It would be funny therefore; if someone says his/her personality is to lie or to cheat! It talks of how you relate to people; react in situations and how you view things generally. It is the contribution God expects you to make into any group you belong to. There are said to be four major Personality groups. Some people like Paul the Apostle have a strong dominant personality. This was why he seemed fearless, and ready to take any kind of risk for the glory of God.They make very good trailblazers and leaders. Also some are like Apostle Peter with a strong lively, jumpy and very active personality. Such people add colour to any occasion and liven up seemingly boring atmospheres. This was one reason why he was always vocal, acting like the mouthpiece of the other Apostles. Remember, on one occasion when The Lord Jesus Christ talked about His forthcoming death in Matt.16: 22, he (Peter) was quick to reply. We also have some people that are highly organized, detailed and very thorough. They are articulate and know how to always put things in order. Joseph obviously displayed this kind of personality and used it in Potiphar’s household, in prison and also as Prime minister of the land of Egypt. The last group is made up of people with a steady and compassionate personality. They are very emotional and caring people. They are able to fit into any situation without complaining and making a fuss. They are usually reserved and gentle, and are more of a behind the scene person. It is likely Barnabas who the Lord used as an encourager to Apostle Paul at the early part of his Christian life falls into this category in Acts 9: 26-27.

The idea is not to look down on any personality type. Every one has its own strengths and weaknesses. Prayerfully find out which one you are, then look for ways to serve God with your strengths and submit your weaknesses to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.

As we conclude these teaching on .......Celebrating your uniqueness......, why not begin to thank God for how He has specially packaged and wired you. Thank Him because He has specially formed (designed, shaped, and packaged) you, and has sanctified you (set you apart) and ordained (empowered) you to fulfill His specific counsel for your life and make a positive impact on your generation.