“Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness...” - Gen 1:26 (NIV)

La Cross came into this world a happy baby, nearly! Unfortunately she had a congenital disorder that stunted her growth. Her parents raised her with love like any other kid. Protected, when she started school La Cross was unaware of her deformities. She was therefore most shocked when out of the blue one kid, seeing her, spluttered: "Monster!"

It was to get worse. She was often bullied. Once in high school she came across a video posted by a class mate. It had already attracted 4 million viewers. One troll read: "Why not put a gun on your head and do us a favor."

How did La Cross respond? First she refused to let other people define her. She knew she had been created in the image of God, beautiful and with a purpose to live out for (Genesis.). Secondly, she decided to get back to her abusers by concentrating on her studies. Eventually she would graduate with a degree in communication and become a bestselling author and motivational speaker.

La Cross's life teaches us never to let other people's opinion define us. We have all been created in the image of a loving God for a purpose. And it is a good one. As scriptures say, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future" (Jer 29:11).

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Prayer for the day: Lord Father in heaven, in spite of all what the world may say, I am your child created in your image for a life of purpose.