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Renee Swope

Encouraging and equipping moms to parent with God's grace and confidence.

Read An Excerpt: Chapter 1 & 2

Uniquely You!

Have you ever wondered why you are the way you are or why you do things the way you do? I remember all the way back to Jr. High feeling like I didn’t really like who I was. I’d compare myself to those around me and try to figure out who people liked most, so I could be like them. It was exhausting!

I want to to talk a little more today about something I shared in my devotion, “The Real Me” featured at Proverbs 31 and Crosswalk. The journey God’s taken me on to become the woman He created me to be has totally changed my life, and all of my relationships, for the better. I hope I can encourage you today with somethings I’ve learned.

First of all, comparison can be my worst enemy. My friend Genia summed it up well one day when we were talking about it. She said, “When we compare ourselves with someone else, we can never measure up because we compare our insides with their outsides.”

She’s right. I usually compare how I feel on the inside with how someone else looks like they have it all together on the outside. Paul talks about the comparison trap in 2 Corinthians 10:12, “but when they measure themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding.”

Comparison leaves us confused and discontent. It causes us to compete with each other but God never intended for women to compete with each other; He wants us to complete one another. Seriously, He wants us to encourage each others’ strengths and then be who He created us to be.

Paul explains why in 1 Corinthians 12:18-20, “But now God has placed the parts, each one of them in the body just as He wanted. And if they were all the same part, where would the body be? Now there are many parts, yet one body.”

The truth is: You are uniquely you because God has a unique purpose for your life. God created you with a unique personality because you play an important role in the story He’s writing in your life. You are “God’s masterpiece…created anew in Christ so that [you] can do the good things He planned for [you] long ago.” Ephesians 2:10, (NLT)

There are certain thing He wants to do through your life and that is why He gave you a personality that is one-of-a-kind! In her book, Personality Plus, Florence Littauer describes four personality types. Most of us are a blend of two. See if you can relate to the desires and emotional needs of one or two of these:

Phlegmatic: Desires PEACE
Needs times of quiet, reduced stress, feeling of worth, relaxation

Choleric: Desires CONTROL
Needs appreciation for achievements, opportunity for leadership, and participation in decisions

Sanguine: Desires FUN
Needs attention, affection, approval, activity with people

Melancholy: Desire PERFECTION
Needs sensitivity, stability, support, space, silence

  • Which personality best describes you?
  • What are your greatest strengths? What are things you think you need to work on?
  • What challenges do you face in discovering your unique “you”?

Click on the word “Comments” below to share thoughts or questions. If you don’t have a blog, click on anonymous, then leave your name and email to be part of a drawing I’ll do this weekend to give away a copy of “Shaped with Purpose : A Practical Guide for Discovering Who You Are” Workbook and CD.

Each comment will be entered for the give-away so be sure to include your email in your comment, and I’d love to know your age and where you’re from.

Comments

  2. I usually don't read the daily devotions. I feel that the Spirit led me to read this one, because I'm contantly asking God to reveal His purpose for my life. Praise God He led me to read your devotion for today.

    To answer your questions:

    Melancholy describes me best.

    I feel my greatest strengths are sensititvity to others feelings and having the intelligence to learn new things.

    I need to work on speaking my mind and following through on the things I say I'll do. I may be a perfectionist to a fault in that I'm unable to get tasks completed.

    The challenges I face in discovering my unique "me" ar that I'm always looking at otheres to see how I measure up to them or how they measure up to me. I'm also so busy worried about people being happy with me that i try to be the person that others expect me to be.

    I'm 37 from Muskogee, OK

  3. I really enjoyed your devotion today. In reading through all the comments, it helps me to see that I am not the only 40 something woman that is still in this place.

    [email protected]

  4. My husband and I are both struggling in this area. I'm tired of going in circles. I pray that God will guide us to be th people we were meant to be

  5. Your words in today's devotion as well as in your blog were just what God needed me to listen to right now. Last year, my youngest child went to college, and my husband and I moved 3000 miles away. I left a great job, and am back to being a stay at home mom, but all my children are out of the house! Each step and risk has taught us something, and God has been faithful. I still wonder why I had to go through all these changes! There is definitely a reinventing season going on in my life, and it's good. I am having to give up more control than I ever even knew I had! It is such a relief to be reminded that I am not in control and my responsibility is to seek God's truth, not create my own path! Thank you for the encouragement!

  6. I can relate to this! This is what I need to hear. I've been desperately trying to figure out what God's plan is for me for years. I would be great to finally figure it out.

  7. Thank you for sharing your story. I am 26 years old and for the past 6 years I have been working on going to nursing school with a family. In the last 2 months after taking one of the last classes that I needed to take for pre reqs, I stopped because I feel like that is not where God wants me to me. So I am finding myself and starting all over again. I felt bad at first, I just started to accept it and I feel a lot better about my decision. akia

  8. Your blog today and your submission on P31 really spoke to my heart. I didn't realize how much I needed to read those words until after I had read them. I am recently seperated from my husband of 10 years. Those ten years were filled with emotional and physical abuse. My mom was constantly telling me that I wasn't her daugther–meaning that I wasn't the person she had known before I was married. I didn't understand that. Now that I am on my own, I am struggling with who I am. I read the four personality descriptions and I found that I could relate to pieces of three of them. Yet, I am still trying to figure out "who am I, what makes me happy, what do I REALLY enjoy?" Thank you for the resources you have provided and your daily uplifting of my spirit. I am in Glen Carbon, IL. [email protected]

  9. The timing of this is perfect of course God is perfect and he knew that I would be reading this at this time. My husband and I are struggling right now. We have been married for 23 years. We married young. We have 4 boys. I stayed home for awhile, worked part time and attended college here and there but never finished. I feel that if something happened to my husband how will I support my family. I know God will provide but is there something I should or could do to be prepared for such a situation.
    Right now I'm wondering what it is I want to do when I grow up but I'm 42 and still not sure and at times feel I should have had the answer by now and well into whatever it should have been but I have'nt and I'm not. I'm tired of being afraid. I want to know who I am and what God's plan is for me. Thanks for sharing how God is working in your life and you sharing this with others.

  10. Thanks Renee for the devotion today. It is perfect timing for me. My oldest daughter is getting married in a few weeks! My other two children are going to be off in college. A big change for my life…no more volunteering at school and all of their activities that needed extra hands. Lord, what are the dreams, hopes and desires that you would want me to do. What is my purpose? I can hardly wait to dive into this material. Praising God for what He is going to do. Pam

  11. Thank you for sharing what God has set on your heart to share. Your blog always inspires me. I am a 47 year old mom of three wonderful grown kids. My life has been centered around them. Though now I am divorced, I look forward to finding me and what God has planned.
    Bless you from [email protected] in Corpus Christi, Texas.

  12. Thank you for raising this issue. It seems to affect women more than men. I am now 57 and after the break up of a 32 year marriage that I really never thought would dissolve, I have been slowly but surely recovering, thanks to the grace of God. I defined myself more by what my husband wanted me to be than who God had created me to be. Self esteem crashed, therefore, when my husband chose a younger woman and left me.

    Like so many women I speak to, life gets more and more complex as relationshps change and develop. I am so grateful to God for His strength and His goodness that has kept me alive. The reality of His love has been demonstrated through friends and through my husband's family…how amazing is that? I can honestly say I have learned so much about God in this time, it has been worth it.

    One more comment. I did the 'Freedom in Christ' course through my church about a year ago and that was wonderful! It is immensely practical, totally Bible based and the 'Steps to Freedom' part brought me so close to the Lord…it was an experience I find hard to put into words. He dealt with issues that I had been living with for too long and I realised more than ever just how much He loves me…the Lord of Heaven and earth loves me and Jesus died to set me FREE!! What an amazing truth!

    If he did it for me…then, whoever reads this, he did it for you too!!

    Thank you for creating this blog! It is good to share God's love for His daughters like this!! May God bless your ministry!

  13. I found this topic to be very timely. I am a 45 year old women/mom living in Alpharetta, GA and have been searching (and slowly) finding who I am in Christ and my purpose for his kingdom for the last 4-5 years. But I am still searching and moving forward day by day!

  14. Seems like this devotion was so timly for many. Thanks for listening to God's and letting him speak through you. We all should be constantly looking for what God wants us to be…. more like Him. And as I struggle with that very issue, I was encouraged by today's inspiriation. Thank you. 44 yo, [email protected]

  15. Dear Renee,
    Thank you for being so vulnerable with us, at God's direction. I am a 38 year old wife-nurse-Sabbath School teacher-daughter-sister melancholy phlegmatic who has no idea what my dreams are. I feel like I'm blooming where I've been planted. I pray for God's will in my life. But I have no idea what His plan for me is. I just keep trying to do whatever He presents day to day.
    I think I will try to read some of the books that helped you, because I have no dream and there is a verse in the Bible that says "Where there is no vision, the people perish." Other than waiting patiently for Jesus to come take us home, and trying to bring as many people with me when I go, I'm not sure what I'm supposed to be doing.
    Thank you for sharing your feelings and thoughts with us. You've been such a blessing to me.
    In Him,
    Jenn
    [email protected]

  16. I'm 35, and in a lot of ways, I think I'm only beginning to understand what God has planned for me. One thing is for sure, just when I think I've got it figured out, God shows me another part. It used to bother me, but not anymore. Can you imagine how overwhelming it would be to see the entire journey we would take with God from beginning to end right at the get go. I like this one thing at a time way of life much better. I think discovering my personality traits will help me be a better parent.

    [email protected]

  17. Thank You…
    for this devotional! It really spoke to me. I'm only 16 from Atlanta,GA and I find myself playing the "comparison game" alot. I dont know what it is, but I feel God telling me He has big plans for my life. That's why I want to make sure I follow His plans and not mine.

    Devin
    [email protected]

  18. Thank you for this devotional! It is so true that we lose ourselves in the busy-ness of life. It happened to me…I started working at 16 (as many teens do) to take some pressure off my mom, so that she wouldn't need to worry about buying my clothes or giving me money to do things with friends. I worked to pay for my own senior pictures, ring, etc…at the time those things seemed so important 🙂 I always let my friends choose our activities, even if it wasn't my fave. I married at 21, and continued my trend – allowing my husband to make the decisions (as he should), but somewhere in it all, I had forgotten what things i actually liked and which ones i did because someone else liked them. I have been single (with one child) for over 2 yrs now and just now am discovering the kinds of things that I enjoy. I am beoming acutely aware of when I do something because someone expects me to and when I am driven to do something because its who i am. This devotional is a great encouragement, so thank you very much for taking the time to post it! My email: [email protected]

  20. Hi Renee,

    Thanks for your insights and sharing. I could completely identify with you and didn't know so many women felt so lost in who they were and what they were created to be and do. That has been my life story even now at age 36. There's always been a longing in my heart to find what that is or if that is really something tangible to pursue. But one thing is sure, I really don't know who I am, what I like because I too got lost in being so quick to please others and put others' interest above my own. It's such a balancing act, because the Bible says to put the interest of others above our own. I never knew when to draw that line, but find myself so many years later having forsaked developing who God wants me to be.
    So now I will pray for God's dreams for my life. Thank you for the encouragement.

    Sandy
    [email protected]

  21. Good morning! You described me to a T this morning. I am a 32 year old wife and mother of 2. I work full time, but I feel like I am just coasting along. I work as an Admin Asst for the aging and disability for the State of Texas. One of my coworkers wants to groom me for her job as a Contract Manager when she retires, but I don't know if I want to do that. I just told her the other day, I don't know what I want to be when I grown up! Alot of times I feel pressure to go after the money, but I want enjoy what I do. She tells me you are too smart to stay in this position for long, but I know for right now that is not something I would want to pursue. And sometimes I feel bad about that? Are my expectations too low? Well this devotional just confirms I need to do what My Father wants me to do, not what other people, or even just what I want to do. People tell me, I would be crazy to pass up all the money that would come with this job, but that doesn't motivate me. Thank you so much for sharing your story, which is actually my story too. I know the Lord, and the Holy Spirit will lead me down the right path, the path He wants me on, not the path everyone else has traveled! 🙂

  22. Wow, there are a whole lot of us out there!! I am so glad to know that I am not the only one, at age 46, who doesn't know her calling and is searching but doesn't know where to start! God knows all things and He knew you needed to have this ministry for those of us in the same boat. Thank you so much for your obedience to Him. May God show His favour in every area of your life! Anita – [email protected]

  23. I am 45 and from NE. I can't answer your questions. I still don't know who I am. I know what I like, but my DH doesn't like that I am a creative person, so I am constantly trying to be something else and I don't know who I am.

    It seems I've never felt like I was good enough at anything or worthy enough to have anything nice. I feel like I'm always "settling for". I wrote down your information of books to read. I would like to purchase them, but I probably won't because then I feel guilty for spending money for myself.

    Please pray for me as I struggle with this every day.

  24. Thanks so much for your devotional this morning. It has been so encouraging to know I am not the only 55 yo woman to wonder where my passion lies. I, too, struggle so much with comparisons. I was beginning to wonder if it was depression or something else wrong with me. I do plan on reading the books and doing the studies you reference. Thank you for your ministry.

    Linda from Nashville, TN

  25. This devotion was just what I needed. I am 32 years old and I went back to college last year, but that was only part of discovering me. I am at least two of the personalities that was described. However, my problem is sometimes the combination of the two causes problems in my marriage. I think that could be becasue I still do not truly understand who I am and what God's purpose and plans are for me. I think the book that was recommended is something I need to read. As stated in a previous message, it really is nice to know I am not the only woman who feels this way. Thanks so much for sharing.

    Faith ([email protected])

  26. Thank you Renee! I love reading all the comments to your devotion also as it lets me know I am not the only one who hasn't figured it out yet. That, itself is comforting knowing that I am not even alone in my "aloneness".
    I am so looking forward to growing and discovering. I did the "strengthfinder 2.0" assessment test to find my top 5 strengths and am using that as a guide also… along with prayer and searching scripture. I have always enjoyed writing… and I was gifted with "the gift of gab" so public speaking just seemed to follow that gift. Can't wait to get to She Speaks!!! Whoo HooO
    Blessings and Gratitude!

  27. wow, I am 53 with my youngest starting his senior year of high school and I wonder what it will be like with an empty nest. My husband and I will celebrate 23 years this October. I have a home business and am excited to see where it goes..
    thanks so much for this

  28. As I was reading through the posts, I was very touched by how many women feel so out of touch with who they are. I also felt led to share my story in the hope that someone else could get encouragement from it. I married when I was 18 years old and have 4 children. My oldest is married and my youngest starts Kindergarden this year. I have always tried to be the perfect daughter, wife, mother, and friend. About two years ago, I woke up and realized that I felt nothing. I thought I was depressed and then I realized that I was really just unhappy. I was overweight and overwhelmed. I just started losing weight, and then I started examining myself. I realized that I didn't know what I liked to do, I didn't know what my favorite color is, or even my favorite food. I decided that I needed to find myself. I unfortunately didn't think too much about finding myself in God, because I thought I was ok there. I was a believer, after all. As a result, I find myself at 41, going through a divorce, and just starting my search for God's will in my life. I will be praying for all of the women out there who feel like they don't know God's plan for their life. And I encourage all of you to find out who you are and what God's plan is for your life. I have learned a lot of great things about myself and my place in God's plan. I am not sure if my marriage could have been saved if I had focused on God more at the beginning of my search, but I do know that even in these circumstances, I am more at peace than I have ever been now that I am looking to God for my selfworth and direction. Anyway, just remember to keep God first in your search.

    Blessings to all.

  29. Thank you so much for your encouraging words! I find it funny that as a recent empty nester at 48, I too have struggled for some time with just what God's plan for my life is really. I'm not the only one who's asking these questions during my mid-life years!

    I have many strengths and passions that are not being used to their fullest potential. I want to wake up each morning excited about my day and serving the Lord. I'm not doing that right now. I'm encouraged by the daily devotions. It seems each one speaks to me. Thank you for encouraging other women!

  30. I am 27 and the Lord has been working on me for a few months about my calling and purpose in life. I am aware of my spiritual gifts and the desires He has placed in my heart, but I don’t know what the next step is to discover His perfect will for my life. I am thankful for the process and know that as long as I seek Him, He will show me the way. Thank you for allowing God to use you for His glory.

    Blessings, Candace

    [email protected]

  32. I am awestruck at the multitude of comments your devotion encouraged this morning. Not surprised, mind you, because I could see my own life reflected in the messages from almost every single response. At nearly 50, I find myself on a crossroads once again-this time, to accept the challenge the Lord has placed before me of going back to school to complete my degree so that I can become a teacher of Family and Consumer Studies, a discipline often overlooked when tallying up the value of education. I know without a doubt that this is what God has intended for me-it is a beautiful fit with the experiences of my entire life, but especially with what I've been doing the past ten years. He has been preparing me well to be equipped for this next leg of my life journey, and I am ready to begin. Does that mean it's easy? No-obstacles come in every shape and size. and often the obstacle in the path is the one I see in the mirror.

    As a choleric personality (I really hate it when these traits are out of control-ironic, huh?), I struggle most often with the need to be part of the discussion, to be heard. Yet, when I think of Father God, He already knows all that I would say, all that I need, and what I need to do is to trust His plan for me, to relax in the promise that He knows my future, and has plans for a hope for me. The need for control vs. the need and desire for God…a daily struggle. My prayer is that He wins more often and that my desire for Him becomes the controlling influence of my life-every day.

    Thank you,

    Anna
    [email protected]

  33. Good morning Renee…. God's timing and faithfulness is so good. Funny… I've been lost and missing the who I was when I was younger. Not really sure of what my purpose is… feeling discouraged in the mommy-wife-homemaker role. Feeling like I'm not doing anything well in any of the roles. I miss the "strong" person I was when I was younger, very much faith-based at that time. Please understand, I do love being a mom and wife… just not feeling like I'm doing a very good job or setting a good example of my faith. I am going to pray more about this. Thanks for being faithful and writing about what He wants you to write about!
    God Bless!
    Pam
    44, currently living in WA
    [email protected]

  34. Renee,
    Your words describe me to a T. I'm 43 with two wonderful children, 23 & 20 and wonderful husband of 25 years. I have always been a "pleaser" so I don't know who I am…or what I would like to do if I could do anything. Instead I go to work everyday, completely unfulfilled, feeling like I don't serve a purpose other than to bring home a paycheck, but feel guilty for feeling this way because in the big picture I am very blessed compared to many others. I hope to read your book so I can begin the journey of finding out who I am and what God's purpose is for me. [email protected] Thank you!

  35. Thank you Renee…I can relate and Thank you to all who have stepped out and posted and will post, it is nice to know that I am not alone!

    I was recently asked "What are your dreams?" Huh?? I don't have a dream..at one time, it was marriage and children, but I am 41, divorced and no children. I have skills and abilities that God gave me and I love using them to Serve others, but I don't have a dream..that I know of. I want what God has planned for me..I am going through seasons, for 10 yrs I knew where I belonged, then things changed, now I ask "What am I suppose to be doing and What is my purpose?" Today, I feel that I can find out "What is His dream for my life?"

    Please enter me in the drawing…I am PEACE w/parts of FUN, CONTROL, PERFECTION, too.

    God Bless and Ride Safe..
    Sunshine 🙂
    [email protected]

  36. How do you know which came first? The description that fits who I am now, is it the same description that fit me before life threw at me everything, and then some? Or have I become a different person, and need to find the old me underneath everything? I read articles on how to nurture yourself, but wonder if I am nurturing a fake me, a me that is just desperate to get through each day.

    [email protected]

  37. Beautifully said, thank you! Just yesterday my husband and I were talking about the falsehood of glorifying self sacrifice by way of neglecting who we are, what we can handle, what makes us, us. I see it everywhere in Christians, it is so prevalent. It's like we think as soon as Christ lives within us, we can "take" anything the world has to throw at us; but, like my husband said, we can bear it for the glory of Christ and rarely was it for the glory of Christ. In all honesty, it was out of fear of making people feel bad, or fear of setting boundaries, or fear of pushing people away from God. Such self absorption! But, God put a piece of Him in all of us and in following Him we can be more in touch with that essence that needs guarding more than anything, for it truly is the well spring of life.

  39. Thanks for the Proverbs 31 Ministries devotion. I'm 42 and also at a crossroads. I would LOVE to have the workbook and CD. I know God wants me to do something…

  40. I read this devotion just at the right time. I am 52, and still searching for God's purpose in my life. My biggest problem is always feeling that I don't measure up to what God wants me to be. I am praying for contentment and peace with who I am in Christ.

  41. Reading your article this morning and then going straight to your blog is so timing for me. I am on a journey right now to know God's purpose and plan for my life. It is amazing how many women and men do not know their purpose in life. I am determined to seek God like never before and I expect him to speak to me and reveal not only my purpose, but my children's purpose in life. Thank you for this "timely" devotion. I would also be interesed in knowing the title of those books.

  42. How did you know? This is exactly what I am going through and have been going through most of my life. I am 44 and lost my husband 3 years ago. He left me with 2 wonderful boys, now 14 & 11. I didn't know who I was after he died. I was always Mrs.? or the boys mom. To make a long story short, I got remarried to a wonderful christian man. I believe God brought him to me. I wasn't looking for another husband. I was okay on my own but God had more for me. I started to see myself as me but I still compare myself with others. I feel like I am not doing enough for God. I know "works" don't get me to heaven but I want to do more for Him. I see all the things others are doing and think I am not even close. Your message has made me realize I need to first and foremost please God. I need to be in His word everyday so that I will not listen to what the world tells me. I always knew I was different but in my eyes, not in a good way. So thank you for reminding me that God made each of us uniquely different. It is all part of His plan, not ours. I love all the comments too. I can relate to each one of them and that I am not alone in this.
    [email protected]

  43. Our God is such a Mighty Gracious God who gives us just what we need when we need it. One of my sisters at church and I were talking last night at Vacation Bible School about this very topic…how we compare ourselves to others as we grow up and see what looks to be so perfect on the outside, but, as we all know, is not so perfect on the inside. We talked about how we all have our imperfections and struggle to be who God wants us to be. She is one of our youth leaders and has given the lyrics to Jonny Diaz's song "A More Beautiful You" to all our youth girls. A very meaningful song to remind us that God made us, He has a purpose for us just the way we are – not the way society says we should be.

    Thank you so much for the post on P31 and the message here as well. There are many of us who struggle with this issue. I know at 49, I am still looking for God's wonderful guidance each and every day!

    Julie
    binyon306 at comcast dot net

  44. Thank you for your insight. At 53 years old now, I missed out on many years of my "journey" stranded in an abusive and oppressive marriage. Thank goodness the Lord brought me out and I have been able to move forward. I have even married again, to a wonderful Godly man, who encourages me everyday to be myself. Now, if I could just figure out exactly who that is, I would be thrilled! God is working in me and I am looking forward with anticipation as to how He is going to use me. Your devotional was perfectly timed. Thank you for your words of encouragement.

  45. I am 34, a mother of 3, work part-time in the medical field, and I still don't know who I am. I fit parts of all 4 personalities. I feel I spend most of my time being who everyone else needs me to be. And I'm constantly comparing myself to others. I would love to know God's purpose for me. Maybe I'm already living it, I don't know. Thanks for your encouragement!
    [email protected]

  46. I love that quote (comparing our insides to their outsides). I so need to be reminded of that — especially with She Speaks coming up. I am not like I used to be, and I wonder what my personality is now — what God has planned for me now (at 36).

    I'm looking forward to seeing you again at She Speaks though I'll be hiding in the back corner — gotta be a back-row Baptist thing 😉

  47. Interesting that many of the comments are from people over 40! I am 48. I have struggled with comparing myself as a mother and professional with other women in the church. A life long friend recently told me that I need to find out who I am and what God wants for me. This devotion was very encouraging!

  48. Reading this devotional at this point in my 51 years of life reminds me that God is always doing something new and fresh in our lives; yet we somehow want to hold on to the comfortable things. I am searching for the what's next in who I am God even though I am transitioning from all my responsibilities to others to now it's your turn. My question is God where am I supposed to go next because I can not see it clearly and who am I at this point. ([email protected])

  49. I cried when I read your devotion this morning and then went to your blog and felt more perplexed. Your devotion was the second one I read this morning that spoke about who am I and what does God want for my life.
    More strange to me is that I have given up on doing anything but taking care of my children…one with a genetic disorder and needing 24/7 care (we have been praying and trying for yrs to find help but no one has worked out) and one of my daughters has been fighting cancer for over 3 yrs so I have been by her side more time than not. My oldest daughter and her husband moved in to help take care on her brother and sister making our home more crowded and stressed although I don't know how my husband and I would manage without them.
    Last year I was hired for a job that was my 'dream' job and though it was part time I had to give it up because of the time needed to take care of my children. I cried for days and asked God why He allowed me to get hired to do something that I was passionate about only to lose it. I stopped dreaming of doing that kind of work and thought that taking care on my children is all He wants me to do.
    But I hate my life. I adore my children and I am blessed that I can take care of them and that they are not put in facilities that would not provide that care my husband, daughter and I provide for them. However, there are time when I am around people that are complaining about their jobs and needing a vacation and searching for a different job that I well up in tears and wonder why I still have such a strong desire to have a job. I have prayed that God will give me peace about not have a job and that I can feel better about staying home and taking care of my children.
    Then as I read my devotions 2-3 days ago I felt God was speaking to me confirming that He would use my education for His good. Then I read the 2 devotions today. Now I am bewildered. I want to be excited but I am afraid of disappointment. I couldn't answer the question about the kind of person I am, I don't know anymore. I am praying that this is not a cruel experience like I had last summer and than God will reveal His will for me.
    Donna
    [email protected]

  50. I am 54 years old and still don't know what my purpose is. It seems to be to continue taking care of my grown son and my two grandchildren. I really feel I was put here to do more than that, I am praying that God leads me to what he wants in my life

    Debbie, Benton Arkansas

Uniquely You

My devotion “The Real Me” is featured today at Proverbs 31 website and Crosswalk. If you found my blog through my devotion, I am so glad you stopped by. The journey God’s taken me on to become the woman He created me to be has totally changed my life – and all of my relationships – for the better. I hope I can encourage you with what I’ve learned.

Have you ever wondered why you are the way you are, or why you do things the way you do? From the time I was in Jr. High, I didn’t really like who I was, so I compared myself to those around me and tried to figure out who people liked the most, so I could be like them. It was exhausting!

I am convinced that comparison is our worst enemy. My friend Genia summed it up best when she said, “When I compare myself with someone else, I can never measure up because I am comparing my insides with their outsides.” Isn’t it easy to compare how we feel on the inside with how someone else looks like they have it all together on the outside? Paul talks about the comparison trap in 2 Corinthians 10:12, “but when they measure themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding.”

Comparison leaves us confused and discontent. It causes us to compete with each other but no one wins! God never intended for women to compete with each other; He wants us to complete one another. We need to encourage each other’s strengths and be who God created us to be. Paul explains why in 1 Corinthians 12:18-20, “But now God has placed the parts, each one of them in the body just as He wanted. And if they were all the same part, where would the body be? Now there are many parts, yet one body.”

You are uniquely you for your unique God-shaped purpose. We are all “God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ so that we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.”Ephesians 2:10, (NLT) God created you with a unique personality because you play an important role in the story He’s been writing since the beginning of time. There are certain thing He wants to do through your life and that is why He gave you a personality that is one-of-a-kind!

In her book, Personality Plus, Florence Littauer describes four personality types. See if you can relate to the desires and emotional needs of one or two of these:

Phlegmatic: Desires PEACE
Needs times of quiet, reduced stress, feeling of worth, relaxation

Choleric: Desires CONTROL
Needs appreciation for achievements, opportunity for leadership, and participation in decisions

Sanguine: Desires FUN
Needs attention, affection, approval, activity with people

Melancholy: Desires PERFECTION
Needs sensitivity, stability, support, space, silence

  • Which personality best describes you?
  • What are your greatest strengths? What are things you think you need to work on?
  • What challenges do you face in discovering your unique “you”?

Click on the word “Comments” below to share thoughts or questions. Or simply leave your name and email to be part of a drawing I’ll do this weekend to give away a copy of my CD and Workbook, Shaped with Purpose: A Practice Guide for Discovering Who You Are.

Each comment will be entered for the give-away so be sure to include your email.

Comments

  1. Hi Renee,

    Like you and many others apparently I’m not certain what my dreams are for myself. I need to do some more research/study and prayer about this. Have done a few small ones but never can put myself into a category.
    Please included me in the draw for your book and CD.
    Thanks for your message today.
    Just started receiving the Proverbs 31 devotionals this week.
    God bless,
    Truusje
    [email protected]

  2. Wow that was an awesome devotional
    I have loaded myself with so much STUFF that just because I have done the same thing for the Lord for so long I have not even stopped to even think Is this what you have for me Lord?

  3. I would love to learn more about myself from a Christian perspective. Your workbook and CD sound like a great way to do that.

    I get discouraged at times when I read about my personality profile because I don’t like some of the words used, the more negative side of my personality (depresssive tendencies). I like to do work for the Lord and He made me the way I am, I just need to be positive about that!

    Thanks for your thoughts.
    Lisa

  4. Loved your article on The Real Me. I was in my 30s too before I discovered who I am and what I wanted to be. I’m now 50 and enjoying the life and ministry that God gave to me all those years ago.

  6. Renee, I could just hug you! Thank-you so much for your Ministry!

    This is my first time to your website and I really feel so blessed by it. I came in reading “What’s Wrong With Me?” Oh my goodness! I can so identify! And with this posting for “Uniquely You” – It’s definately God’s hand that lead me here.

    I have been unemployed Since September 15, 2007. I had just finished reading yet another email sent to me as to why I didn’t get hired for a job that I had applied to. Tearfully, I prayed, and Opened my email to my new subscription to your website.

    I have been trying so hard not to be depressed, but I just really don’t know where the LORD is leading me to.

    LORD, What do you want me to be??? What is your calling on my life? You have led me here Lord…Please give me WISDOM and Discerning Direction. AMEN

    Please continue to follow where the LORD Leads you!

    Blessings to you all! We are NOT Alone!!!

    Doreen – [email protected]

  7. Dear Renee,
    Thank you so much for sharing, it has touched me more than I thought it would. This devotion has really hit home, none have grabbed me so tightly. I have always felt I don’t belong anywhere, always thinking if I was like her or could do that, I would be alright. Never quite feeling like I am totaly belonging or accepted can be so tiresome.
    I can see that if I just learn more about me, and learn to accept everything God has given me, and use this information, then maybe I will be more at ease knowing I am his child. An that’s all I need to remember, with Him I can do all things. Even start this new scary journey of discover of me and finding His dreams for me.
    God Bless
    Cheryl F
    [email protected]

  8. Hi Renee,
    Your devotion came at a good time, at God’s time I guess. For the last year or so, I have been floundering, wondering who I am, what God wants from me, or for me. I’ve been afraid of who I am, afraid that I don’t measure up. Thank you for your insights on comparisons…that is my problem. I’m learning that it’s okay to be me, warts and all, that God loves me. From briefly looking at the personality traits, I think I’m a pretty even mix of phlegmatic and melancholy. Whew! That’s a tough one. I got a an email the other day, one of those “get to know yous”…what did you want to be when you grew up as a child? Perfect, but I’m trying to get over that was my answer. By God’s grace I will. I’m learning to believe Him over what I feel or even see. I’m sorry if this is scattered, I have four kids under the age of 9 and trying to have a coherent thought is a challenge sometimes. I just want to know that it’s okay to be me, that God does have a plan and a purpose for a woman who doesn’t see herself as having much to offer.

    Thanks. C

  9. Awesome! Thanks for the great reminders, and like so many others i appreciate your ministry
    God Bless
    Lilbitsmom

  11. Hello Renee,
    I just finished dinner and decided to read my email. My sister in law Sandra is just a joy. She is always thinking of me. I never would’ve thought prior to reading all the comments on your blog, all the women who were reading my thoughts and putting it down for me. I hardly ever consider what I want out of life.. other than being a good wife and mother. I have been through alot in my life, and the LORD has always brought me through to the other side. My mother was an alcoholic, and passed away at 40 due to the disease. My sister is now following in her footsteps at 50. I have 3 beautiful children and a pretty nice husband.. been married now for 23 yrs this march. I often wondered what else I was suppose to be doing with my life besides, being mom and wife.I go to work everyday,helping others and trying to be a blessings to others..I often keep in mind.. GOD is watching, does he approve?? is this pleasing in HIS sight? I always try to be the peace maker. I have always done this. Growing up with alot of siblings, it was hard. There was alot of sadness and pain. I made a decision while. I was quite young, not to let alcohol take over my life. My mother was always sad…working hard to care for her children by herself. I really dont stop to consider what my dreams in life are very often. I am just going through my day. I do know that I have a desire to write a book about my life with my family, growing up…. just not sure how to get started. I truly want to be the woman GOD desires for me to be. I often think I get in HIS way. I hope I can stay out of HIS way long enough so I can what HE wants me to/be… Thank you for these questions… I believe I am a little of all 4 personalities and that’s ok…. He is showing me. I look forward to reading your book/and hearing you cd. Thank you for your website. I will come back to it often. Sincerely, Regina, Sister in Christ since childhood.

  12. I really enjoyed your Proverbs 31 lesson today! I have been thinking about this a lot lately and wondering if I am doing what I am called to do. I love staying at home with my kids but feel like I’m missing something that I should be doing along side of that. I too feel that I’ve done what others said I was good at not really what I was sure I was made to do! Thanks so much for todays message!

  13. I think I am probably melancholy. I wish I wasn’t. The definition caught my attention: Needs sensitivity, stability, support, space, silence

    I definitely need all of those things — probably a little too much. It did strike me as interesting that the support and silence went hand in hand. I can see that in myself. I crave connection but I need silence sometimes to think. Actually, I love it when I can be with someone and have their be a compaionable silence — no rushing to fill the void. I find that when there is rushing to fill the void all the important things end up unsaid!

    My email is [email protected]

  14. Hi Renee,

    Many times I read the devotionals I receive daily from Proverbs31 Ministries and they are just what I need to hear at the time. Your devotion today was no exception. It is hard, sometimes, to read devotions from women who seem to have it all figured out, while I feel I haven’t grown up quite yet. Thank you for honestly sharing your search for finding who you are supposed to be in God. I look forward to diving more into the resources you list to discover a bit more about myself and who God has in store for me to be.

    Best Wishes,
    Connie

  15. Dear Renee,

    I am 32 years old and for most of my life I have felt as if I do not belong. I have longed to be someone else. I have felt and still feel myself growing up in the shadows of life. I have often wondered why I am the way I am and why would God make me this way.
    I’ve been married for 6 years and I am very unhappy with myself. I am who my husband wants me to be, who my kids want me to be, who my employer wants me to be and I have no clue who I really am. I want to know the real me! I pray that God will help me to walk in faith and not in fear but I feel fear everyday. I feel inferior to others but know that I am a chosen generation, a royal pristhood, I’m loved by God and the thought he thinks towards me.
    I will focus more on discovering the real me but as I type this I’m thinking- my focus should be on others and God will take care of me.
    I will pray for God to reveal to me the woman he had in mind when he fashioned me in my mother’s womb.

    Thank you,
    Ty

  16. Renee,

    I love your transparency! Reading through the other blogs, i see that I’m not the only one struggling to find the “real me”. I am a people pleaser and in doing so, I become who they want me to be and not who God wants me to be. I am currently on my knees praying about the direciton God wants my life to take in re: to ministy. I have been working with the youth of our church for the past 8 years, but feel He is leading me in a new direction. It could be to your conference in June. What a blessing you all are and a big thank you for listening to God’s call on your life and being an encouragement for the rest of us!

    Serving HIm,
    sara ([email protected])

  17. I struggle w/ who I truly am. I am a stay-home Mom of 3 but my work-type skills are highly technical. So I find myself missing the ‘brain’ work while at home. But when I had to return to work a couple times when my husbands work ended, I missed my kids so terribly. I don’t have time for hobbies or ‘self’ really so I often experience burn out. I think your book sounds like it could be a wonderful help in this area – identifying who I am in Christ & who God made me to be.
    God Bless you!
    Christine ([email protected])

  18. Hi Renee,
    I totaly undderstand how you felt, someone recently asked me what I liked to do for myself, and I couldn’t give them an answer.
    I guess I’ll have to pray about it, but it’s nice to know that I’m not the only one who feels like they ever fit in.
    Kathie

  19. Dear Renee,
    Finally, someone out there that understands my pain! i think see myself n all of the “types”. I am 43 and I too, wonder what’s my purpose, how do I ask God, how do I listen and how do I know that’s he’s talking to me? I was led to this fascinating site through Daily Encouragement and I am so happy I did. It seems as though there is an Elaine talking to Elaine (me). Please put my name in the drawing and send me a daily devotional please. I love this.

    God Bless you

  20. Hi Renee,
    I enjoyed your devotion on Proverbs 31 Ministries today!! It hit me right on. I’m truely in search of the Real Me, but it is really hard doing that. I’m 37, single, never been married. You are right on getting wrapped up in things and trying to please others instead of focusing on the only one we truely need to please, Jesus!! So thanks for the encouragement today!
    Nancy ([email protected])

  21. WOW! Once again I am amazed at how the Lord continually uses the Proverbs 31 ministry to speak to me!!! Thank you for this ministry Lord!

    I am the mom of 3 teenage boys. My dream has always been to be a Mom and I have loved being a Mom. But as they have gotten older and more challenging I can honestly say that most days I am VERY unhappy. My personality is definitely of the “control” type which does not make for a peaceful home with 3 headstrong boys!! Your article made me realize that I really need to pray & search myself for my “new dreams”. No, I am not giving up being a Mom to these young men but may be focusing my attention on what God’s plan for me next would help me and my family.
    Thanks Renee & God bless you!
    Kim
    [email protected]

  22. Hi Renee,
    I’m in a women’s bible study and we were just talking about our gifts. And I sat and listen to our teacher. I thought to myself what is my gift? What is my purpose in His kingdom? I’ve been saved since 1995 and my goodness I don’t know what I want out of life. I mean I know I want to be in Heaven like now. But meanwhile I’m stick here in this rotten world, I don’t have dreams or goals. Like I don’t have a life or something. I’m married (2nd time around) to wonderful Godly man. I have 2 teenage kids. But I really live for them I mean God comes first of course. But your devo just sadden me, but inspired me to go out and find my dream thru prayer and books to read. Thank you for a mini-flash-back of my life. God continue to use you. And fill your heart with wisdom and knowledge.

  23. Hi Renee,
    A few years ago, my son asked me if I thought God wanted me to do something big. At that time, I realized that had more small yet meaningful intentions for my life. I just figured God would use me as He saw fit without really asking what He intended for my life. Thank you for your blog. I’ll be praying and searching for the answers to these questions.

  24. Hi Renee, Your devotion and blog reminded me of a journey I have been on. My Mom died at 68 in December of 2004. I had been very close to one of our ministry leaders, (Mary), and highly respected her visionary type personality. The evening we found out that Mom didn’t have much longer to live Mary called me out of the blue to ask me to come to a teacher training class (totally out of my comfort zone). Although I didn’t know why she had called until the end of the lengthy phone call and after some prodding, because she instantly changed her focus when I answered the phone. She could tell something was wrong when I answered the phone. Because of my admiration for Mary I strongly considered, and ended up, taking the Teacher Training class. It changed my life. The class culminated with a final PRESENTATION (that scared me to death), but I was determined to honor God. During the preparation of the presentation God took me back through my life and showed me his fingerprints on my life. I know I am God’s child and that He has shaped me with a purpose but I’m still not 100% sure what that is.

    Thank you for your Ministry and Fellowship with all of us Christian women throughout the world.

    Love,
    Melanie Stilley

  25. Renee,
    I appreciate the honesty of your devotion. I am a mother of 4 little ones (6,4,2 & 5mos) and have the joy of staying home with them! I love what you and all the ladies at Proverbs 31 are doing- such a blessing to all of us in our little corners of the world. My prayer during Lent is to continue to sit in the Lord’s presence and discern His will for me. I am excited that He is preparing the way for me.

    I coordinate a small mother’s group at my church. We read the book, “What Every Mom Needs” and it also noted the personality book. I think I’m a little of all of the types (so does that mean I don’t know who I am?! ) but I’d have to say I am the melancholy type(and would like to be more like the phlegmatic). I guess I still figuring it all out and could really benefit from your resources!
    Blessings,
    Maria
    [email protected]

  26. Renee, thank you so much for sharing. I found your blog through your devotional at Proverbs 31. I’d like to share a little about my journey, which is still continuing. I’m sorry if it’s too long. (I don’t even know that anyone will read it, but it’s good to get it out.)

    Growing up, I was pretty much whatever I could be to keep my mom happy. I felt it was my responsibility to keep the family peace. To make sure Mom did not get upset. To protect my siblings from hurt that I had gone through. I did things Mom wanted me to do… sew, sing, etc. I believed the things Mom wanted me to… strict standards. But it wasn’t me. It wasn’t what God had put in my heart. There was something I was missing and I could feel it, though I had no clue what caused the discontented feelings.

    A little bit of finding myself happened while I was working at the headquarters of a religious organization. I suppose some would call it rebellion. (Nothing evil, just didn’t follow all the organization’s rules (or my Mom’s wishes).) But I believe it was the beginning of realizing that God is the God of indiviuality. He created not people, but indiviuals. And He created me. He put in my heart precise needs, thoughts, emotions, interests, dreams, intellect, and understanding. It was the beginning of realizing standards are not Bible rules. They are an individual’s desire to act out what God has put in their heart. (Although there are many who act on them out of fear of man and God has nothing to do with it.) Being left with no strict personal standards, I had to search out for myself what God had in mind for me. It was a roller coaster those six months, but I learned a lot about who God is in relation to who He created me to be.

    This learning continued during the next year at home with my family. Not so much in a physical sense. I felt I should still act upon Mom’s standards so long as I lived at home. But it was more of a heart issue. I sought God like crazy. “Show me Your plan for me.” “What do you want me to do?”

    Then came the summer… that wonderful summer in Texas. I was away from home and Mom’s mold, yet not confined to a religous trianing center and it’s rules. I was trusted to be an adult and to be responsible without rules. For the first time, I was given choices, and God led me through each and every one. I can’t quite put my finger on what exactly all changed that summer, but I left Texas a totally different person in my heart and thoughts. There was a depth there, an understanding beyond rules. And a crazy amount of God searching going on too… with loving a wonderful man and not being sure of God’s will in it.

    But I hadn’t found my interests and dreams until after I was married. The real me has come out more and more as my husband has encouraged me to not care what others think. To not worry about others action and attitudes, since they are not my responsibility. There is freedom in that. Great freedom. Freedom to be everything God has created me to be.

    Brenda (brenners at theherd dot us)

  31. It’s comforting to know there are other women that think like I do! I’m 33 and a mother of two under the age of 3. My husband and I have been married for 13 yrs. Before we had children, I thought I knew who I was. Wife and Career woman. After deciding to stay at home with my children, I’ve been struggling with “who am i anyway”? While trying to be the perfect mom, wife and friend, I’ve lost who I really am! I’d love to read more in your book/devotional.
    Thanks,
    Lori
    [email protected]

  32. Just yesterday I met with my Bible Study Group and brought up Psalm 139. I want to know more about why God created me. Thank you.

  33. Dear Renee,
    Reading your devotion was like reading the story of my life. I am 36 years old and am in that spot of wondering what my likes, dreams, desires, etc. even are. You have so inspired me. Thank you for sharing this.

  34. I really appreciate your devotion. I’ve been struggling with this ever since I graduated from college and decided that what I had spent 4 years training to do was not what I was cut out to do. Since then I feel like I’ve simply fallen into different careers and activities because they were suggested by others or seemed safe.

    Based on the personality types, I see myself in the Peace and Melancholy descriptions.

    [email protected]

  35. Your comments today have touched on a subject that seems to be on the hearts of a LOT of women! I am 54 years old, and have struggled for years – but especially the past few months, with what my purpose is, what my strengths are, and what I like to do. I was struck with a sense of sadness as I read everyone’s posts that there are so many women out there that have poured their lives into others, but have never taken the time – or even knew – that we should also be spending time doing things for ourselves. Many of us have been taught that it is “selfish” to do things for ourselves. And so many of us have lost “The Real Me”. How sad that I am 54 years old, 2/3 of my life has passed, and I don’t know the plans that God has had for me. I’ve been so busy “doing” that I never got around to “Being”.
    But – praise God – it’s never too late. I look forward to more insight for all of us who are just now finding our way!
    God Bless,
    Wendy
    [email protected]

  37. I just discovered your blog and can’t believe there are so many others that feel as I do. I look forward to reading and learning more on the subject of “The Real Me”. I have been searching for many, many years and feel that God has led me here today.
    SK

  38. OH SNAP!! It is with complete relief that I am not the only one suffering a “mid-life” crisis!! Just kidding. Just Kidding.

    Joking aside. It is wonderful to read these posts and know that you are not the “only” woman in the world that doesn’t “have it together” and even those who we think do, don’t. 🙂

    As my pastor says, it’s no accident that you are here (in our church). I say the same thing about your blog and your P31 article. It’s no accident that you wrote it, it was posted and many have come to read it. Amen! 🙂

    I am 39 and hope that the Lord will allow me to discover who I am in Him by the time I am 40 (Dec ’08).

    May you continue to receive His blessings and wisdom.

    In Christ’s love,
    Your Sanguine/Choleric with a little dash of Phlegmatic reader.
    Mish
    [email protected]

  40. Dear Renee, I have been reading “Encouragement for today” since a few weeks ago, and I want to thank you for all the enlightenment, I had several trials during my life…. I find myself reading the verses several times a day and the comments. I can relate with most of them, I got separated and divorced about 10yrs ago, and that was the most devastating experience that I have ever dream to go through, at that point I had 2 teens and my life was falling apart. But God was there with me…..every second of my journey; At that point I understood that HE has to break us sometimes to make us see the real road ahead of us, that HE is in control of our lives.

    When I was 32 …(in your comments)….it hit me when I was reading…. and I went back on time…. I was so much like that….I didn’t have any dreams, I was overwhelmed with work and been the perfect mother and wife… and everything we are when we are married and trying to do and be everywhere … I was just was leaving life, making sure everybody and everything was happy… but me…… I was lost….. Didn’t know who I was and where I was going….what it keep me going were my kids…. After a few years of my separation I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001, another trial……… at that crucial point of my life I asked God for life, guidance, strength, and health, and I surrendered to him, just waiting for his wishes. I was reading Job every day, the full chapter, I identify myself with him…… and Psalms: 17 / 18 / 27 etc., I am in peace free of cancer! I am in my early 50’s, have two wonderful adult children out of college and I am leaving my second life and very grateful to God for all the blessings in my life, especially… he blessed me when I had cancer and I thank my Lord for ALL and every second of it. I am grateful to him for my cancer, which brought life to me and made me the woman I am today!! God bless you always!
    [email protected]

  41. Your devotion brought tears to my eyes. I am so in this spot right now. At the ripe age of 42 I feel so lost because I have no dreams. Trying to explain it to even my friends who seems to have it all together seems useless and then in black and white there it was. I am so thankful for the devotional if for no other reason than to know that I am not alone in this. I recently prayed to God for dreams and wondered why I didn’t have any. This helped to answer the real question that maybe just maybe I don’t have dreams because I have yet to find out who I am. Thank you so much.

  42. I have struggled for years with finding my place. Before I was married, I was involved in an abusive relationship for 4 years. 15 years later, I’m married with 2 young boys. I keep looking for how God wants me to use my experience. I’m very active in my church, and only 2 or 3 people know of my past. I want to find a way to use it for His glory. I know everything happens for a reason, and I don’t want my past to be in vain. I keep trying to see where God wants me to go with it. Your post today really struck a chord. I pray that God will show us our place.

  43. Dear Renee,
    Your devotion on Proverbs 31 Ministries on “The Real Me”, resounded in my spirit. This is something I have been struggling with for the last 3 years. Who I am really? Not the person (or as I like to call it – the mask) that everybody sees, but the person deep down. It is amazing how many women (and men) are struggling with this very thing.
    Unfortunately I am still struggling with that answer. I have been a people pleaser for so long, I can no longer remember that little girl with endless possibilities. Any dream that I have, I question the very intent – is this selfish of me to want this….
    Being the a part of a larger than life family and a mother of a special needs child, I find myself craving solitude just to be able to think.
    Deep down, the only thing I know to be true is the deep desire to serve God and be pleasing to Him. Thank you for your words of encouragement that there is an answer through our Father to this question.
    L.S. ([email protected])

  44. I’m always amazed at the number of women who share this same issue, as evidenced by the comments to this devotion. It never seems that way when you are experiencing it yourself, you always feel alone in the situation.

  45. Renee, I am a very busy, happy wife and mother of two. I always felt (before having kids) that my purpose in life was to be a mom and wife and to raise my children to love and honour God. I have never wondered if I should be doing something else. However, your devotion made me think that maybe I should be doing MORE. I don’t know what yet but thank you for your devotion – it has made me think.

  46. Renee,
    I can’t thank you enough for your heart today! This is the very topic that I have prayed about for weeks now. It is something that bothers me as I progress into a career that I’m not sure coincides with the devine purpose God created me for. Just the reassurance that I am not the only one with this issue is such a blessing — thank you from the bottom of my heart!

  47. Dear Renee,
    Thanks so very much for the words of encouragement and for sharing with us. I was just what I needed. May God continue to use you to help so many of us Ladies who are searching for our own paths…. If I may… I would like to share some of your ideas and of course scripture with my ladies group. I am a counselor for Reformers Unanimous in Vienna, Ohio. I think it would make a great topic to help them find their hopes and dreams, as most of them have either lost theirs or have allowed Satan or a person to shatter theirs…. thanks in advance for your continued work in the Lord Jesus Christ.
    milo
    Lorraine

  48. This is exactly where I am in life! Struggling to find out what God’s purpose is for me and what I’m meant to do. I know it’s something filled with greatness for Him, but I can’t seem to figure out what it is. Thank you so much for giving me hope that I won’t have to struggle with this my whole life!
    ~Corie
    [email protected]

  49. Thank you, Renee, and all you women who shared your hearts. I am on a similar journey and really appreciate the encouragement.

  50. It’s amazing how God works becouse I just purchased Personality Plus as it something God has been dealing with me on…As my relationship with God has been growing over the last year I have been having a hard time fitting in as ” I’m not sure who I am as or what to say… as I’m so worried about what people want me to say or will think about what I’m saying.