The Same but Different

Bible Reading: Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:5

Kyle and Kent were identical twins. They looked so much alike that the only way to tell them apart was by the dark birthmark on Kyle’s shoulder. They even enjoyed doing all the same things. They both loved to run and were part of the elementary boys’ running club in their area.

During devotions one night, Kent asked, “Dad, Kyle and I are so much alike. How can God tell us apart? We look the same, and we even like the same things, except for broccoli. I don’t know how Kyle can stand the stuff!”

Dad laughed. “Well, let’s read some Bible verses that talk about that.” He turned to Psalm 139 and read a couple verses out loud. “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” He looked at the twins. “So you see, even though God made you the same, He also made you different. He knows and loves each one of you and gave you unique talents and gifts to be used for His glory.”

“But…I’m not sure our talents are all that different,” said Kyle. “We both seem to be talented in exactly the same things.”

“Think of it this way,” said Mom. “Kent is better at sprinting short distances while you are stronger at running cross country. So even though running is a talent for both of you, you are stronger in different areas.”

Dad nodded. “That could be true in other ways too.” He flipped through his Bible. “Here’s another verse—Ephesians 2:10. ‘For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.’” Dad looked at the twins. “Even though you’re alike in many ways, Jesus has given you different strengths so you can point others to Him in your own special way. He made you and saved you, and He’ll help each of you serve Him using the unique gifts He’s given you.”

After devotions, Mom made them some popcorn and they sat down to watch

a movie.

“I know what one of Mom’s talents is,” Kyle said. “Making great popcorn!”

“Yeah,” said Kent. “And we’re both really talented at eating it!”

-Lisa Fuller

How About You?

Do you ever feel like you’re no different from anyone else? That you’re not that special? You are special to God. The Bible says He knit you together in your mother’s womb, which means He made you and loves you. He created you to have unique talents
and abilities, and He will help you use them to point others to Him. You are God’s
special creation!

Today’s Key Verse:
Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV) For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Today’s Key Thought:

You are special to God