Alike but Different

Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, 13-20

“Mom, I’m so stupid!” cried Vivian when she arrived home from school. “Why can’t I be smarter?”

“What’s wrong, honey?” asked Mom.

With tears in her eyes, Vivian handed Mom her math test. “I got the worst score in the whole class,” she said, her voice trembling.

“Oh, Vivian, I’m sorry!” said Mom. “I know you studied hard for that test. But that doesn’t mean you’re stupid.”

“Yes, it does,” said Vivian. “No one else has so much trouble with math. Why can’t I be like everyone else?”

Mom looked out the window. “It’s snowing,” she said. “Do you remember the report you did on snowflakes a while back?” Vivian nodded. “Snowflakes have a lot of things in common,” said Mom. “They’re all alike, right?”

“No, Mom,” Vivian replied. “There aren’t even two snowflakes that are alike. I had that in my report. You know that!”

Mom smiled. “Yes, I do, and Vivian, God made us like those snowflakes—no two alike. But each person is part of God’s creation. Each one is beautiful and special. Take you, for instance. Math is difficult for you, but you can play the piano—you can play music that kids twice your age can’t play. Does that make them stupid?”

“No.” Vivian shook her head.

“God made each of us different for a reason,” Mom said. “He gave you different talents and abilities than other people, but they all serve the same purpose—to bring Jesus honor and glory and show others who He is. That’s the important thing.”

Vivian looked at the math paper. “So it’s okay if I’m no good at math?” When Mom nodded, Vivian grinned. “Oh, good! Can I throw my math book away and forget about it?”

Mom laughed and shook her head. “Sorry. You’ll just have to work even harder at math. I’ll help you with it, and Jesus will too. But remember, He loves you no matter what grade you get in math—or how you do in anything else. Just do your best and trust Him with the results.”

“Okay,” Vivian said. “I will.” • Christine P. Honey

How About You?

Do you get upset when you do poorly at something? Remember that nobody excels in everything. God gives different people different talents, and He’s given some to you. They may be in the area of music, speaking, helping, friendship, or any number of things. Taking advantage of opportunities in your life now will help you discover and develop your talents. Thank Jesus for making you who you are, and use the talents He’s given you for His glory.

Today’s Key Verse:
1 Corinthians 12:4 There are different kinds of gifts. But it is the same Holy Spirit Who gives them. (NLV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Use your talents for Jesus