Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for bringing us together today. We know that You created each of us with intention and love. Lord, help us quiet the voices of comparison and doubt, and open our hearts to see the beauty and worth You have placed within us. May Your Word remind us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, and may Your Spirit guide us as we learn to embrace our unique design. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Bible

Psalm 139:13-14 – “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.”

Discussion

1.        What does it mean to you that God “knitted” you?

2.        “I praise you because…” Do you ever praise God for how you are made? How does your perspective change by thinking this way? What would you praise God for?

3.        Do you ever criticize yourself? You are God’s creation. When you think negative thoughts about yourself, is this serving God?

4.        You are “fearfully and wonderfully made”. God made you with intention -  your God given value is not changed by worldly things. “Fearfully” could be interpreted as reverent awe. When you remember that your value comes from God, how does that change your thoughts about those external things and comparisons?

Brain

Lesson

·      God made us connective beings. Comparing ourselves with others is the brain’s way of connecting and determining a sense of belonging which is needed for survival.

·      When we “lose” a comparison (someone seems better, prettier, more successful), the pain centers of the brain activate—the same ones involved in physical pain.

·      These are just negative thoughts! They happen automatically. Give yourself grace and understanding for having them but practice the tools to stop them!

Tools

1.        Catch – Awareness is always the first step. What is the negative thought?

2.        Challenge – Is this thought true or helpful? Are you praising God on his creation – you?

3.        Change – Replace the thought with truth and direction— both your God-given value and your personal values.

o   Truth - God created me with purpose and intention. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. My worth doesn’t depend on comparison or worldly things.

o   Direction - When I live by my values. I can walk confidently, no matter what others are doing. Do I stand confidently in alignment with my values or should I take steps to live more aligned with them?

Activity

Write out your values. When you know your values — what truly matters most to you — you have a clear internal compass. Instead of measuring yourself against others, you measure your actions against your own purpose and priorities.

When you live in alignment with your values, your brain feels safe, focused, and calm. You no longer need to chase external approval — you’re already living from a place of confidence and peace.

Example-

Closing Prayer

Dear God, thank You for reminding us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. When comparing thoughts automatically appear, help us remember our worth comes from You alone. Teach us to walk in confidence, living by the values and purpose You placed within us. May we leave here with peace in our hearts, gratitude in our thoughts, and faith in who You created us to be. Amen.