Fashioned

Have you ever found the perfect outfit? I mean, one that looks amazing AND fits your perfectly. When both come together at the same time, you just feel good! At least I do, and I bet you do too! So let me tell you a true story to start the year as we begin our new theme, FASHIONED.

One October, a long time ago, I waited for a package to arrive in the mail from Pennsylvania to Texas. This package was no ordinary box. Instead, the box held something special, a formal dress made specifically for me. I was in college at SAGU in Waxahachie, Texas, ready to attend my first Homecoming with my date and future husband, Steve. I can't say we were in love yet, but the sparks were flying. I wanted the perfect dress.

During those years, my Texas girlfriends shopped at Dillard's, Macy's, or Neiman Marcus, but not me. This girl was on a tight budget and didn't have money to shop for a new homecoming dress. I was a little envious while I waited for my dress to arrive.  What if my box didn't arrive in time? I would have to wear someone else’s dress. Second-best was not my dream.

Could I trust the designer?

Let me give you the back story. When I was a teenager, my mother picked up sewing as a hobby or, more likely, to save money on clothes that her three daughters needed. Creating outfits for my twin sister and me became an everyday experience. I remember having the same pantsuit in at least three colors! I loved it because I love fashion, something my mother instilled in me. She was a "fashionista" before TJ Maxx brought the term to life! I didn't feel deprived; I felt special. While I can't remember any store-bought clothes I wore, I can still picture those outfits because they were made for me. She bought the pattern and measured me from head to toe to ensure a good fit. If adjustments were needed, she made them. She possessed detailed workmanship, and I trusted that what she made for me would fit me perfectly.

My box arrived in the mail right in time for Homecoming!  I tried on my finished dress and instantly fell in love with it. The fit was perfect, and the style was excellent because it was made for me. That Homecoming, I became my mother's masterpiece as I wore the beautifully designed dress! I not only felt beautiful, but I also walked confidently.

As we move into a new year, I dream of women walking confidently in who God has fashioned and created them to be. We are each a beautiful creation in our Master's hands.

Our theme for 2023 is Fashioned – Created for Purpose.

Paul writes to the church as Ephesus, these words,

“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)

Let that sink, and consider this thought. Just as my mother measured me and then created the dress that would fit ME perfectly, our Lord Jesus Christ, who knows your frame, wants to make you and me a masterpiece to be used by Him. 
There is only one YOU! It’s easy to look at other lives and compare ourselves. Let’s determine to put down the desire to wear someone else's outfit. Comparison kills and causes you to settle for second best.

The Lord will work out his plans for my life—for your loving-kindness, Lord, continues forever. Don't abandon me—for you made me. Psalm 138:8 NLG

Allow the Master to do His work in your life in 2023. Be patient. Stand still and listen to His commands. Then, you must submit your will to the CREATOR when measured for a tailor-made life. God has specific plans for YOUR life, and it is better than what you can create on your own, I promise!

“Now to him who can do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)

What will you wear in 2023? I can't wait to see how God FASHIONS your life!

Liz