The phrase "fearfully and wonderfully made" is one of the most powerful expressions in the Bible, highlighting the intricate and intentional design behind human life. These words come from Psalm 139:14, a verse that speaks to the awe and wonder of our existence. Understanding this phrase can deepen our appreciation of who we are and the God who created us.
The Meaning of "Fearfully and Wonderfully Made"
In Psalm 139, King David reflects on the greatness of God's knowledge and involvement in creating each of us. He marvels at how God formed him, saying,
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well"
(Psalm 139:14, NIV). But what does it mean to be "fearfully and wonderfully made"?
Fearfully Made
The word "fearfully" does not refer to being afraid or terrified. Instead, it conveys a sense of awe and reverence. The Hebrew word used here is yare, which can also mean "to be in awe" or "to stand in awe." It speaks to the profound respect and amazement we should have when we consider the intricate design and purpose behind every human being. Our creation was no accident—God intentionally formed us with great care.
Wonderfully Made
The term "wonderfully" in the original Hebrew is pala, meaning "to be marvelous" or "to be beyond understanding." It emphasizes the beauty and complexity of human life. When David says we are "wonderfully made," he is acknowledging the greatness of God's creative work in us—how our bodies, minds, and spirits function together in a harmonious way that reveals God's brilliance.
The Intricacies of God's Creation
The Bible teaches that God created humans with purpose and design. Psalm 139:13-16 gives us a glimpse into the process of this divine creation:
"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."
(Psalm 139:13-16, NIV)
These verses highlight the precision and care with which God created us. From the moment of conception, we were not merely the result of random chance; we were lovingly and purposefully formed by the Creator. This truth can help us see ourselves and others through the lens of God's amazing design.
The Value of Every Life
The concept of being "fearfully and wonderfully made" also emphasizes the inherent value of every person. We are not only God's creation, but we are also His beloved creation. Jesus confirmed this value when He said:
"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."
(Matthew 10:29-31, NIV)
This passage reminds us that, like every creature in creation, we are seen, valued, and cared for by God. Our worth is not based on our achievements or appearance but on the fact that we are His masterpieces. As Ephesians 2:10 says,
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
(Ephesians 2:10, NIV)
Embracing Our Unique Design
When we understand that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, it challenges us to appreciate the uniqueness of each individual. No two people are exactly alike, and that is a reflection of God’s creativity. Whether it is our physical appearance, personality traits, or talents, we are each designed to fulfill a unique purpose in the world.
In 1 Corinthians 12:14-18, Paul teaches us about the diversity and unity within the body of Christ:
"Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. Now if the foot should say, 'Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,' it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. And if the ear should say, 'Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,' it would not for that reason stop being part of the body."
(1 Corinthians 12:14-16, NIV)
Each of us plays an important role in God's creation. We may not always understand why we are made the way we are, but God’s plan for us is perfect.
The Call to Care for Our Bodies
Recognizing that we are fearfully and wonderfully made also calls us to care for our bodies. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul reminds us:
"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."
(1 Corinthians 6:19-20, NIV)
As God's handiwork, we are responsible for taking care of our physical bodies. This means living in a way that honors Him—by making healthy choices, avoiding harmful behaviors, and treating our bodies with respect.
Conclusion: A Life of Purpose and Gratitude
To be fearfully and wonderfully made is to recognize the greatness of God’s creation in us. It is to see our lives as precious and valuable, crafted by the Creator for a unique purpose. The knowledge that we are God's masterpieces can give us confidence and a deep sense of gratitude. Each day, as we reflect on the truth of Psalm 139:14, may we praise God for His marvelous work and seek to live in a way that honors the greatness of our Creator.
