"For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago."Ephesians 2:10 (NLT)
Recently, I had the opportunity to share a reflection during Sunday School in celebration of Women's History Month. As I prepared, I found myself reflecting not only on the contributions women have made throughout history, but also on how God weaves our personal stories into His greater story.
I opened with two simple questions — ones that apply to all of us: How many of us feel like we've got it all together — that we are the perfect example of what God wants? And how many of us know we are still an imperfect work in progress — but God can still use us?
If we're honest, most of us fall into that second category.
My Story in HIStory
As I reflected on Women's History Month, I thought about the impact women have made across families, churches, and communities. That makes me proud to be a woman — but even more than that, I'm grateful to be a woman of God, saved and sustained by His grace.
It also made me think about my own story — my Jesus story.
As my pastor shared during a revival a few weeks ago, each of us has a story with Jesus. I like to call mine "My Story in HIStory," because God uses everything we go through as part of His greater plan. I'm grateful that my story reminds me that I matter to God — and so do you.
Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.
But I'm also honest enough to admit that I've been a mess in some seasons of my life. I've experienced brokenness and moments where I wondered why Jesus would even choose me. Even now, I still pray: "God, help me see myself the way You see me."
Yet I am continually amazed that God can use our mess and brokenness for our good, for the good of others, and ultimately for His glory.
Imperfect People, Perfect Purpose
As I sought God for what to share, I was led to the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew chapter 1 (Matthew 1:1–16). What stood out to me is that God intentionally included women in the lineage of Christ — something that was uncommon at that time. And what's even more powerful is this: These women were not perfect.
Reminds us that even when situations are messy and we make imperfect decisions, God is still working behind the scenes.
Romans 8:28 — God works all things together for our good.
Teaches us that our past does not determine our future with God. Her faith changed her story — and her legacy.
Shows us that even after loss and hardship, God can bring restoration and blessing when we remain faithful and trust Him.
Reminds us that God can sustain us through pain, injustice, and broken seasons — and still bring purpose out of them.
Teaches us what it means to say yes to God, even in uncertainty, and to trust that nothing is impossible with Him.
Luke 1:37
Your Story Still Matters
Each of these women had complicated stories — pasts, struggles, and circumstances that many might have used to disqualify them. But God still used them. Their lives remind me that God's plan cannot be stopped by our mistakes, weaknesses, or brokenness. God can use anyone — including me and including you.
So, as we reflect during Women's History Month, I want to leave you with this encouragement:
Your past does not disqualify you.
Your brokenness does not make you unusable.
Your story still matters.
God is still writing your story. And just like the women in Scripture, your life can become part of His story — a testimony of His grace, His mercy, and His power.
Today, I am grateful for my story in Christ. Grateful for my story in HIStory, and grateful that God can take imperfect people like us and still use us for His perfect purpose.
And for that, I simply say — Thank You, Lord.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reminding us that our stories matter to You. Thank You for Your grace, mercy, and love that meet us even in our brokenness. Help us release every lie that says we are not enough or not usable. Teach us to see ourselves the way You see us — redeemed, chosen, and created with purpose. Just as You used the women in Scripture, remind us that You can use our lives too. Give us the courage to trust You, to say yes to You, and to move forward in faith. Take every part of our story and use it for Your glory. We thank You, Lord, for making our story part of Your story. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow — not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love."Romans 8:38 (NLT)
Your Story in HIStory Reflection
Ponder This
When you look at the stories of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary, you see women whose lives were far from perfect — yet God still chose to use them. Now consider your own life:
- 1.
What part of your story have you been tempted to hide, minimize, or believe disqualifies you from being used by God?
- 2.
What might change if you began to see that very part of your story as something God can redeem and use for His glory?
If this message spoke to you, take a moment to like and share your thoughts in the comments — I'd love to hear how God is moving in your story.
Today's Declaration
"I am God's masterpiece — redeemed, chosen, and created with purpose. My past does not disqualify me. My brokenness does not make me unusable. My story still matters, and God is still writing it."