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. (NIV)

Sticks and stones can break my bones but words will never hurt me.  How many times have I heard that?  How many times have I said that?  How many times have I wished it to be true?  Words do hurt, and they continue to hurt long after the conversation is finished.  I can still hear the words of a parent telling me that I didn’t measure up.  I can still hear the words of my spouse saying something hurtful.  I can still hear the woman at church telling me how much better someone else could do my job.  I still have that little voice in my head telling me that I am not worthy.  Sometimes, Lord, I hear You calling me to do something, and I am willing and excited about what You have planned for me.  Then a feeling of uncertainty comes over me. The whispers to my heart start telling me that I can’t do it; I’m not spiritual enough; its ridiculous that I would even think You would use me.  They are whispers, but they are so loud that those are the only words I hear.  All of the old words come rushing to join in to make my insecure feelings take over.  Lord, when doubt tells me that I am weak and alone, help me to remember that Deuteronomy 31:6 tells me to be strong and courageous, not to fear or be in dread because You will stay with me.   When doubt tells me that I’m not good enough for a certain position, help me to remember that Ephesians 2 tells me that I am Your masterpiece, created to do the good things You planned for me.  Romans 8 says if You are for me nothing else matters.  Sticks and stones can break my bones and words can hurt me, but Isaiah reminds me that by Your stripes I am healed.