Taking it Personally by Marilyn Nutter

“Don’t take this personally,” my co-worker said as I was completing a project. “But the person who had the job before you really worked a lot faster and got more done.” 

I sighed and couldn’t believe the comment. Didn’t she realize that it was a personal comment? I determined to try and not let the offending comment discourage me. I knew in time I would become more efficient. After all, I had only been there a week. I prayed to find ways to “work smarter.”


The idea that the God of the universe who hung the stars in place is my personal God is an awesome thought.

Not only is God aware of who I am because He created me, but that He knows me intimately. “O Lord you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise. You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down: You are familiar with all my ways.” (Psalm 139: 1-3) 

The Psalmist says with certainty that God searches us---as if digging, excavating and examining. He discerns with great insight. He knows what I am thinking, where I am and what I am doing every second of my life.

Some may consider God’s knowledge about them a scary thought. Personally, I think it is comforting. 

Nothing takes God by surprise. He knows my whereabouts and knows me. He cares about me whether I feel it or not. He is personally concerned about every decision I make and every relationship I form. His very presence in my life offers me personal security and confidence.

So, how can we respond to this intimate and personal knowledge?

Can you ask God to show you His best for you today? Can you respond with confidence that His presence will get you through a difficult day or even a crisis? Can you thank Him for His personal love for you? 

Take Psalm 139 personally. That’s the way it’s intended. 

Read about Marilyn on the Wow Lead Writers' Page.
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