"But I don't like that..."

Whether it's an unattractive personality trait or a physical imperfection, at some point or another, there are (and will be) things that we don't like about ourselves. It's true!


Well folks, one of the things I don't like about myself is my hands.


I don't like the way they look at all. They are always purplish, cold, mottled/splotchy, and quivery - I just don't like to look at them. In addition, it makes me feel self-conscious when others look closely at them.


I wouldn't have told you this if I didn't have a story to go along with it...


God can use any situation to bless. However, He usually uses the things in life that are uncomfortable.


Today at TW I was sitting in study-hall with some friends. We were laughing and having a pretty good time... a little boring, albeit. But it was still pretty good overall.
One of my friends was snapping goofy pictures of our little, laughing group.


I had my hands folded, hugging them to myself for warmth (the building was not heated today - I was literally a human icicle. Freezing would be a mild term). I guess the way I was positioned must have looked a little bizarre.


Suddenly, I became aware that she was taking aim at my hands. I quickly pulled them away as she asked what the matter was.
I kind of laughed, saying that I just didn't like the look of my hands. She gave me a weird, half smile, as if to say, "You're kidding, right?"
Another friend, who was watching this whole thing unfold, said, "Why don't you like your hands?"


Well, then I had to explain. I stated my reasons and said, "When people look at them, I just feel sort of self-conscious." I shrugged, hoping the conversation would end at that.


I wasn't expecting any sympathy - I didn't want any sympathy. I just wanted to explain myself. However, what happened next was pretty darn unexpected.


After I finished explaining myself, he looked up from his work and said plainly, "Christine, God made your hands exactly the way that they are. Just accept that; be happy with the way He made you."


He didn't say it condescendingly or reprovingly; he was just genuine and kind in what he said.


I turned to the other friend — she was examining the pictures closely. Looking up, she flashed one of her sincere smiles at me; I smiled back. I must admit, my smile was a little half-hearted... I was still processing what he had said a moment earlier.


Turing around quickly in my chair, I thanked him.


And I'm officially pathetic! I should not be so darn shocked when a peer corrects me like that. Correction is a good thing. Also, I was thinking that I must be a very self-absorbed girl. Why do I focus on my hands so much? This really made me think...


Refreshing is a good word for it.
Every now and again, it's nice to be reminded of the fact that as brothers and sisters in Christ, we are called to help each other. And not for selfish ambition, pleasure, or pride. But we should serve our friends out of a sense of responsibility and genuine care for each other in Christ. I know a few friends who are like that -- let me tell you, I treasure them dearly.


Too many people shy away from saying things that could potentially be taken the wrong way (pegging me here).


Sometimes I get in a rut of what Christian friendship looks like by the world's standards. You know, the kind of friend who will listen, sympathize, and pray... but do little else.
I don't want to be like that though. I want to be bold in Christ. I want Him to use me in the lives of others; I want to speak the truth in love and kindness.


Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."


I'm still not exactly fond of my hands... but I'm working on seeing myself (and my hands) how God sees me. I am far from perfection, but in the Lord's eyes, I am priceless.