You are God's Masterpiece
Monday, March 23, 2026 by Melissa McLaughlin

By Melissa McLaughlin

My eyes squinted and watered. I tried to focus. Moving in closer, I studied the artwork. Bizarre brushstrokes dotted the canvas in a crazed pattern. I struggled to discern what the painting represented. It felt like an eye exam gone bad or the start of a migraine.

Eventually, a sigh slipped from my lips. My shoulders slumped as I stepped away in confusion. Why bother painting something no one can understand?

Still, the mystery tugged at me. Before moving to the next exhibit, I turned back for one last glance. Now viewing the artwork from several yards away, the outline of a lovely face took shape. Recognizing a mosaic-like format, the details merged to form an unexpectedly larger composition.

My eyes sparkled. The artist’s expertise and intrigue brought surprise and wonder.

What earlier seemed like maddening, haphazard ink blobs on canvas now appeared as compassionate eyes shining out from a serene and soulful face. Smooth lines and expressive hues called to me. In awe, my body stilled, absorbing the splendor. A masterpiece returned my astonished gaze.

This new vantage point and fresh encounter with the artwork caused me to contemplate God’s transformative work in our lives. We cannot always discern His ways until we look back later. But we trust His heart to bring beauty from ashes.

Scripture reminds us that God designed us as part of His marvelous creation to accomplish His purposes.

Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) - For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Do you feel like God’s handiwork or masterpiece?

If you laughed at that question, it’s okay. I did, too. With aching backs, wrinkled smiles, and glitchy memories, we may not feel like God’s masterpieces, but we are.

Remarkably, as Christians, we are shaped by the hand of God and born again of His Spirit. The Creator formed us from the dust of the earth. Yet, more importantly, He refashioned us through faith in the Savior’s atoning blood.

Each act is an utter miracle, beyond comprehension.

What miracle could be greater than the beating heart in the life of a baby?
What miracle could be greater than melting our rebellious, prideful hearts to surrender and receive Christ as Lord?

Whether caressing a new infant in our arms or hugging a newly baptized Christian, each one is glorious to behold. Each one an incredible act of God.

However, sometimes these miracles grow foggy in our minds. Further, sometimes things in life are best viewed from a distance. Our hyper-focus on momentary details may cause us to miss the beauty of the bigger picture.

May the Holy Spirit help us step back and view God’s grand work anew over the expanse of our lives. May we see each hardship as the brushstrokes and shades of God’s prized portrait in the making. For His glory and our eternal good.

Prayer: Oh God, our Creator Artist, retrace each detail of our lives to paint a holy design of eternal proportions worthy of Jesus’ name.

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Comments

Jessica J Brodie From SC At 3/30/2026 11:49:41 AM

Amen, Melissa. We cannot always see the picture God is painting. But he sees... and all we must do is have faith and trust in our master Creator.

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

Absolutely, Jessica! When we remember His great love for us, even when we can't understand His plans in the moment, we know He is making something beautiful as we trust Him. God bless you!

Yvonne Morgan From Oklahoma At 3/29/2026 1:09:51 PM

A much needed reminder Melissa. Even when my life doesn’t make sense, I remember that I am God’s masterpiece.

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

So, true, Yvonne. There are many times we don't feel lovely or lovable, but the God who is making us beautiful in His sight loves us.

Nancy E. Head From Pennsylvania At 3/28/2026 9:31:11 PM

A beautiful message! God bless!

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

Thank you for reading and for your encouragement, Nancy! God bless!

Audre Boggs From At 3/25/2026 10:34:19 PM

Thank you Melissa! God bless you more!

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

Awww, thank you, Audre! The Lord bless you and keep you!

Laura From California At 3/24/2026 8:04:53 PM

Thank you for this. Such an on time message ??????

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

Praise the Lord! God bless you, Laura!

Karen Girl Friday From TN At 3/24/2026 2:57:29 PM

Melissa, this is so inspirational. Yes, there's nothing like the beating heart in an infant and the Spirit melting our rebellious heart and spirit to come to Him. While we are our own worst critics, I wonder if it makes the heart of our Creator sad when we complain about how He created "me?"

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

Wow. Karen, your insights are so profound. Lord Jesus, help us see others AND ourselves as You do. God bless you, dear friend!

Mike Clancy From Portland, Or At 3/24/2026 12:49:34 PM

God bless you for this Melissa! ????????????

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

Mike, thank you for reading and encouraging me in the Lord! All glory to the One who redeems and re-designs us!

Melissa Henderson From Mount Pleasant SC At 3/24/2026 11:02:07 AM

Amen. God's creations are amazing. From the fast flying hummingbirds to the human body, God is constantly creating and bringing life to the world. Have a blessed day! :-)

Reply by: Melissa McLaughlin

He is a Master Potter, Painter, and Life-Giver! God bless you, Melissa!

Spiritual Life

Join author and teacher, Melissa McLaughlin, and grow in Truthful Grace as we ignite the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit in our hearts, minds, prayers and lives. Grow in Christ, grow in the knowledge of His Word, the Bible, grow the passion in your prayers.

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