Just Because They Said It Doesn’t Make It True
TRACIE MILES
Lee en español
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14 (NIV)
I don’t normally watch reality TV, but years ago, I stumbled upon a dating show and watched in disbelief.
Three couples met for the first time in pitch-black darkness. They laughed, talked, and connected, appearing to genuinely like each other.
But then came the big reveal. Each couple was split into separate rooms with a two-way mirror in between — the woman could only see her reflection, but the man could see through the glass. Then a spotlight illuminated each woman for a few seconds.
The men got together and discussed their impressions, pointing out every imperfection they had noticed in their dates’ body shape, clothing, and facial features. They spoke as if their shallow opinions were facts.
I imagined how those women must have felt. Moments before, they’d been appreciated for their personalities. Now they were being measured by a quick glance and superficial criteria. Their minds likely swirled with questions.
Am I pretty enough? Did he like the real me? Will I be chosen? Am I … enough?
I longed to tell each woman, Just because they said it doesn’t make it true.
The world has a way of setting impossible standards and whispering that our worth depends on how we look, what we do, and how we compare to others. But Psalm 139 reminds us that our value isn’t determined by public opinion — it’s established by God Himself.
God formed every part of who we are, inside and out, with intentionality and care: “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb… I am fearfully and wonderfully made …” (Psalm 139:13-14, NIV).
Someone else’s critique doesn’t rewrite His workmanship. Their words and opinions aren’t the measuring stick.
Recently, I was reminded of this truth in my own life when someone compared me to others in a way that made me feel less-than. It felt as though their understanding of me was based on others' words, opinions, and assumptions rather than my true heart and abilities.
It hurt deeply. For a moment, I almost believed them.
But Psalm 139 pulled me back to reality: My Creator’s craftsmanship is not up for debate. I was made on purpose, with purpose, and no one gets to define my worth but Him.
If we’re not careful, we can carry people’s offhand remarks or judgments like heavy baggage, letting them define us in ways God never intended. But the truth is that opinions are fleeting. His Word is eternal.
You were crafted intentionally and wonderfully by the Creator of the universe, and nothing anyone says can change that. So when you feel the sting of criticism or comparison, lift your head and remember: Your worth has already been settled.
The One who knit you together has declared you valuable — and His is the only opinion that will stand the test of time.
Lord, thank You for creating me with care and intention. Help me reject false labels and remember that I am fearfully and wonderfully made by You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
OUR FAVORITE THINGS
When we’re faced with a situation that's out of our control, it can be hard to remember that our job is obedience to God and His job is everything else. If you’ve ever wrestled with trusting the Lord when the outcome is uncertain, Lysa TerKeurst recorded a teaching that will encourage you with the truth that He is good, faithful, and active in whatever you're facing. Plus, she shares a real-life testimony of how one small act of obedience can change everything (you might want to grab a few tissues for this one!). Watch the free video here.
ENGAGE
If you’ve been hurt by someone’s words, judgment, or mistreatment; struggle with negative thinking; or need motivation to pick yourself up and move forward with renewed confidence, check out Tracie’s inspirational books on her website. You can also subscribe to claim her free e-book, 10 Tips for Handling Change Well in Your New Season, and connect with her on Instagram.
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FOR DEEPER STUDY
1 Samuel 16:7, “But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart’” (ESV).
Whose words have you allowed to shape your view of yourself? How can you replace those labels with God’s Truth from Psalm 139? We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments.
© 2025 by Tracie Miles. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
P.O. Box 3189
Matthews, NC 28106
www.Proverbs31.org
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