Tuesday, May 13, 2025
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Zambia Flying Doctor Service Successfully Evacuates Conjoined Twins

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In a remarkable and lifesaving operation, the Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) has successfully evacuated omphalopagus conjoined twins from the Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital (ADCH) in Ndola to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka. The twins, born to a 22-year-old mother from Chipulukusu in Ndola, were conjoined at the level of the xyphoid process to the umbilicus and had a combined weight of 4.5 kg.

The delicate aeromedical evacuation mission became a reality following the approval from the Ministry of Health for ZFDS to undertake this critical journey to transport the conjoined twins from ADCH in Ndola to the specialized care facilities at UTH in Lusaka.

Upon arrival at the University Teaching Hospital, the infants underwent a thorough medical evaluation, including a full blood count test, Hepatitis Profile, RPR (Rapid Plasma Reagin), and Total Serum Bilirubin, along with detailed imaging to assess their health and readiness for further medical interventions.Zambia Flying Doctor Service Successfully Evacuates Conjoined Twins

Zambia Flying Doctor Service transporting the conjoined twins

According to Dr. Joseph Mulenga, a medical professional at the Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital, the University Teaching Hospital’s multidisciplinary team will now focus on stabilizing the infants and conducting a comprehensive investigation into their condition before exploring the potential for surgical separation. The medical community recognizes that such cases require thorough examination and careful planning to ensure the best possible outcome for the twins.

The twins, born through a Caesarian section procedure, were safely handed over to the medical personnel at the University Teaching Hospital at 13:15 hours at ZAF City Airport in Lusaka. This remarkable effort underscores the dedication of medical professionals and organizations like the Zambia Flying Doctor Service to provide specialized care and support to those in need, making a significant difference in the lives of patients and their families.

Zambia Flying Doctor Service transporting the conjoined twins

President Hichilema Grants Pardons and Commutes Sentences for 815 Inmates

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In celebration of Zambia’s 59th Independence Anniversary, President Hakainde Hichilema has exercised his Presidential Prerogative of Mercy, granting clemency to 815 inmates and commuting sentences for an additional 17 individuals.

The announcement was made by Home Affairs and Internal Minister Jack Mwiimbu during a media briefing in Lusaka. The act of clemency reflects the government’s commitment to commemorate the historic occasion by offering a fresh start to those who have served their sentences and are ready to reintegrate into society.

Among the beneficiaries of the presidential pardon, 45 are females who have the added responsibility of caring for circumstantial children. The government has expressed its intention to support their reintegration process as they return to their families and communities.

Minister Mwiimbu revealed that the government has allocated funds to assist the pardoned inmates with their reintegration, ensuring they have the necessary support and resources to rebuild their lives.

In addition to the clemency granted, Minister Mwiimbu also highlighted the government’s efforts to improve the justice system. An audit of various facilities has been initiated with the goal of expediting the delivery of justice to citizens, ensuring that their rights are upheld, and justice is administered more efficiently.

The act of clemency is seen as a gesture of goodwill and a demonstration of the government’s commitment to promoting social reintegration and rehabilitation, ultimately benefiting the pardoned inmates and society at large. It is part of the broader efforts to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and human rights in Zambia.

Police confiscate wheel chair from disabled man

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The Human Rights Commission (HRC) has issued a call to law enforcement agencies, urging them to prioritize the dignity and worth of all individuals in the performance of their duties. This plea comes in response to a disturbing incident involving the confiscation of a wheelchair from Mr. Daniel Mwamba, a person with a disability, who was found selling plastic papers in Lusaka as a punishment for engaging in street vending.

In a statement, HRC spokesperson Mweelwa Muleya underscored the importance of ensuring that law enforcement activities are conducted in a lawful, reasonable, and justifiable manner, especially within a democratic society such as Zambia.

Mr. Muleya described the actions taken by the Lusaka City Council as cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment inflicted upon an individual with a disability. He stressed that the confiscation of Mr. Mwamba’s means of mobility not only violated his rights but also compromised his ability to lead an independent life.

“The Commission calls for an immediate halt to the continued violation of a wide range of Mr. Mwamba’s rights, including the right to independent living, by returning his wheelchair,” Mr. Muleya stated.

He further expressed his regret that the Lusaka City Council had urged the victim to visit their offices to resolve the matter, despite having incapacitated him by confiscating his means of mobility.

He further expressed his regret that the Lusaka City Council had urged the victim to visit their offices to resolve the matter, despite having incapacitated him by confiscating his means of mobility.

In light of this distressing incident, the HRC is advocating for swift restorative measures that encompass the immediate reinstatement of Mr. Mwamba’s rights and dignity. Additionally, the Commission suggested empowering Mr. Mwamba by securing a trading place for him within the Central Business District. Such actions would not only demonstrate humanity but also help alleviate the trauma inflicted upon him.

Mr. Muleya concluded by reiterating the Commission’s call for all law enforcement agencies to continually recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every human being. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that law enforcement remains proportionate, lawful, reasonable, and justifiable within the democratic framework of Zambia. The call serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly those who may be more vulnerable due to disabilities or other factors.

Chief Chiwala Calls for ACC Investigation into Alleged Ministry of Lands Corruption

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Chief Chiwala of the Lamba people, residing in Masaiti District, has called for the intervention of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to investigate and prosecute Ministry of Lands workers reportedly involved in illicit land deals. Chief Chiwala has expressed deep concern over alleged corruption within the Ministry of Lands and the fraudulent administration of land across the nation.

According to Chief Chiwala, certain Ministry of Lands employees have established illegal cartels that unlawfully manage land in various regions of the country. In an alarming revelation, he stated that officials at the Ministry of Lands have even gone as far as forging land documents and irregularly issuing land titles.

The Lamba chief voiced his grievances during a gathering at his palace in Masaiti when he hosted a courtesy call by Lands Minister Elijah Muchima.

Minister Muchima, in response to Chief Chiwala’s concerns, emphasized the need to address the rampant land irregularities within the Copperbelt Province. He acknowledged the existence of multiple land disputes and illegal land allocations across all ten districts in the region.

Dr. Muchima cited several specific cases that the Ministry of Lands is currently scrutinizing, including the Mauberry land dispute in Ndola, the degazetting of Forest 39 in Ndola, and the pending titling of Lufwanyama Farm Block plots. The minister made it clear that land should not be the exclusive domain of the wealthy.

Earlier in the day, Dr. Muchima paid a courtesy call on Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo, who expressed the urgent need for a comprehensive land audit within the Copperbelt region.

In a related development, Warren Mwambazi, Member of Parliament for Bwana Mkubwa, urged the Ministry of Land to expedite the resolution of land disputes in Ndola, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues promptly.

Patriotic Front Wrangles – PF Reports Ng’ona for Forged Meeting Application in Kabwe

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The Patriotic Front (PF) has taken swift action against Mr. Morgan Ng’ona, reporting him to the Zambian Police for his alleged involvement in forgery and impersonation in an application to convene a meeting on PF premises at the University of Mulungushi.

Raphael Nakacinda, the Secretary General of the Patriotic Front, lodged a formal complaint with the Lusaka Police Commanding Officer, asserting that Mr. Ng’ona was not a genuine member of the party and was misleadingly presenting himself as such, engaging in impersonation. In his report, Hon Nakacinda revealed that the letterhead used in the application for the use of accommodation facilities at Mulungushi University was a complete forgery, demanding the immediate arrest of Mr. Ng’ona on the grounds of these offenses.

Hon Nakacinda called upon the police to act swiftly to apprehend individuals involved in such acts of lawlessness and to uphold the rule of law. Furthermore, he urged Mulungushi University and other relevant authorities to take note of the situation, emphasizing that this was a clear case of forgery and impersonation.

The alleged perpetrator, Mr. Morgan Ng’ona, a former PF official from Matero Constituency, had written a letter to Mulungushi University, claiming that the Patriotic Front would be hosting an independence retreat with an anticipated 500 attendees in Kabwe. Copies of this letter were forwarded to the Minister of Education and the Minister of Home Affairs and Interior Security.

When questioned about the nature of the meeting, Mr. Ng’ona redirected all inquiries to the suspended Member of Parliament for Matero, Hon. Miles Sampa.

In the official letter submitted to the Police, dated October 23, 2023, Hon. Nakacinda informed the Lusaka Commanding Officer about the case of forged PF letterhead and impersonation allegedly committed by Mr. Morgan Ng’ona. He underscored the fraudulent nature of the letter and emphasized that Mr. Ng’ona was a former party official who had defected to another political party in 2022 and had not been re-admitted to the PF.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan Arrives in Zambia for State Visit

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Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has arrived in Zambia for a three-day state visit.

President Hassan’s aircraft, an Air Tanzania plane, landed at KKIA at 17:05 hours, where she was warmly welcomed by President Hakainde Hichilema. The visit is expected to strengthen the already close ties between Tanzania and Zambia and foster discussions on a wide array of issues encompassing bilateral, regional, and global matters.

These discussions will serve as a follow-up to President Hichilema’s State Visit to Tanzania in August 2022, emphasizing the commitment of both nations to deepen their cooperation. A central focus of the discussions will be vital infrastructure projects that link the two countries, including the Tanzania Zambia Railways (TAZARA), Tanzania Zambia Mafuta Pipelines Limited (TAZAMA), and the Nakonde-Tunduma One-Stop Border Post.

The state visit will culminate in the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering key sectors like trade, investment, energy, and defense, reinforcing the collaboration between Tanzania and Zambia.

During her stay in Zambia, President Samia is also scheduled to participate in the 59th Independence Celebrations in Lusaka. She will later officiate at the Zambia-Tanzania Business Forum, facilitating increased economic cooperation between the two countries.

One of the most anticipated events during the state visit is President Samia’s address to the National Assembly of Zambia on Wednesday, October 25th, 2023, a moment that holds great significance for the political and diplomatic relations between Tanzania and Zambia.

In a warm and gracious welcome message, President Hakainde Hichilema expressed his excitement at hosting President Samia and her delegation. He underscored the deep-rooted connection between Zambia and Tanzania and the commitment to preserving and strengthening this bond.

CORRECTION NETBALL: Red Arrows Win 2023 Independence Cup

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Red Arrows have won the 2023 Netball Zambia Independence Tournament staged at Mukuba Mall in Kitwe over the weekend.

Arrows scooped the tournament with a nearly perfect run after recording five wins and one draw.

The Air Force side beat Kopala Queens 27-09, Nkwazi 13-12, 22-11 Kansanshi, Napsa 15-12 and drew 17-17 against Green Eagles.

Napsa emerged runners up and Eagles were third in the main category.

Destiny won the community teams category with Zesco scooping the corporate category and the men’s competition was scooped by Green Eagles.

FINAL STANDING

ELITE TEAMS

1. Red Arrows

2. Napsa

3. Green Eagles

COMMUNITY TEAMS

1. Destiny

2. Wusakile Queens

3. Divine

COOPERATE TEAMS

1. Zesco

2. Zanaco

3. Shoprite

MEN’S TEAMS

1. Green Eagles

2. Ndola Spartan

3. Bulangililo

Two Die from Anthrax in Sinazongwe District

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Southern Province health officials have reported two casualties from anthrax in Sinazongwe district. Health Surveillance Officer Mwaka Ngwama confirmed that the two individuals lost their lives at Maamba General Hospital, raising concerns about the ongoing anthrax outbreak in the region.

Ngwama disclosed that Sinazongwe District has recorded a staggering 186 cumulative cases of anthrax, making it a dire public health crisis. Among these cases, 122 people are currently undergoing treatment, while 66 have been discharged over time.

These revelations came to light during a One Health Technical Working Group meeting held to address the anthrax outbreak. Presenting a comprehensive report to the working group, Ms. Ngwama emphasized that the disease had spread extensively across the district. Consequently, a series of preventive measures were being implemented to contain the outbreak.

To curb the spread of anthrax, health officials have initiated spot check inspections at various checkpoints. During these inspections, dried meat suspected to be contaminated was confiscated, and those responsible were placed in police custody.

The gravity of the situation prompted the Sinazongwe Town Council to take decisive action. In an official notice dated October 17th, 2023, and signed by Council Secretary Choolwe Maunga, the council ordered the immediate closure of all butcheries and slaughterhouses within the district. Furthermore, the transportation of meat within and outside the district has been strictly banned. The council’s notice also warned that any breach of this order would result in legal action against the responsible individuals.

The local authorities have sought to reassure the people of Sinazongwe by emphasizing their commitment to resolving the crisis. They are working closely with relevant authorities to ensure the situation is brought under control.

Expressing deep concern over the anthrax situation, Sinazongwe District Commissioner Nchimunya Siakole described the outbreak as dangerous due to the high number of infections affecting the local population. The district faces a daunting challenge in managing the outbreak and preventing further loss of life.

PF Suspends Davies Chama, Miles Sampa, and Others Amid Disciplinary Charges

In a bold move, the Patriotic Front (PF) has suspended several prominent party members, including Hon. Davies Chama, Hon. Miles Sampa, and more, who are currently facing disciplinary charges. These actions were announced on October 22nd, 2023, in Lusaka.

Effective immediately, the PF has temporarily removed several key figures from their positions within the party. Those affected by these suspensions include the Patriotic Front National Chairperson, Hon. Davies Chama, Chama South MP, Hon. Davison Mung’andu, Matero MP, Hon. Miles Sampa, and Mafinga MP, Hon. Robert Chawinga.

Regarding Hon. Miles Sampa’s suspension, the party took a stern stance. Sampa faces fresh disciplinary charges after a controversial incident on September 15, 2023, when he and his supporters stormed the Party Secretariat, resulting in property damage. Furthermore, Sampa has been stripped of his role as Chairperson of Local Government within the party.

Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba, Chairperson for Information and Publicity and a Member of the Central Committee of the PF, issued a statement about these actions. He said, “The decision to suspend these senior members is not taken lightly. It is essential to maintain discipline and integrity within our party. The actions of Hon. Miles Sampa and others were regrettable, and we must uphold our party’s values.”

The Central Committee of the PF has issued a directive to the Disciplinary Committee, urging them to expedite the hearing process of these disciplinary matters. The goal is to complete the process within a one-month timeframe.

Hon. Given Lubinda, Acting President of the PF, expressed his deep concern during the Central Committee’s meeting in Lusaka. He stated, “The rise of indiscipline in our party is alarming and unacceptable. It is troubling that some of these incidents involve senior party members. Rest assured, we will act firmly to address this issue. Those responsible will face the consequences of their actions.”

Additionally, the Central Committee is addressing various critical matters during its meeting in Lusaka, including the determination of new dates for both the Constitutional and Extra-Ordinary General Conference.

Zambia Mourns yet again, Ng’andu Peter Magande Passes Away

Zambia is in mourning again, as the nation bids farewell to a distinguished economist and former Minister of Finance and National Planning, Hon. Ng’andu Peter Magande. The 76-year-old statesman, whose remarkable journey from humble beginnings to international leadership has inspired many, succumbed to a short illness, according to family members (more details later).

Hon. Magande, who served as Minister of Finance during Levy Patrick Mwanawasa’s presidency, had been hospitalized for the past few weeks, battling the ailment with unwavering resilience. His passing marks the end of an era for Zambia, as he leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and economic expertise that has left an indelible mark on the country.

Magande, an economist by profession, played a pivotal role in shaping Zambia’s economic landscape. He served as the Minister of Finance and National Planning of the Republic of Zambia from 2003 to 2008, a period during which he made significant contributions to the nation’s financial stability and growth.

Recently, Hon. Magande had been actively engaged in promoting his memoir, titled “The Depth of My Footprints.” This memoir chronicles the remarkable journey of a young boy who, in the remote and rugged Zambezi Escarpment of southern Zambia, tended cattle and watched over forlorn millet fields. It vividly narrates how this same boy would go on to become one of Zambia’s most charismatic, powerful, and intelligent economists and a global leader.

Magande’s ascent from these humble beginnings to his leadership role in the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (ACP), representing countries from Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, is a testament to his unparalleled determination and dedication to public service.

During his political career, Magande served as a Member of Parliament for Chilanga Constituency from 2006 until 2010. He was a member of the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) and played a key role in the National Executive Committee, where he served as Chairperson of the Committee on Economy and Finance.

His educational journey began at Namaila, Chikankata, and Munali Schools before he pursued higher education at the University of Zambia, where he graduated with a degree in Economics and Mathematics in 1970. His academic pursuits didn’t stop there; Magande continued to excel by obtaining a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda.

Magande’s illustrious career in the civil service commenced in 1971 as a freshman. He served as an economist in the Ministry of Rural Development from 1972 to 1980 and subsequently held the position of Secretary in the Department of Economics within the Zambia National Service.

His achievements led to his appointment as the Director of Budget in the Ministry of Finance. From 1983 to 1986, he assumed the role of Permanent Secretary for various ministries, including Commerce, Industry & Trade, Decentralisation (Central Province), Agriculture & Rural Development, and the National Commission for Development Planning.

Following his distinguished service in the government sector, Magande transitioned to the parastatal sector from December 1986 to March 1991. During this period, he served as the Managing Director of Lima Bank Limited, a newly incorporated development bank. He later took on the role of Executive Director at the Industrial Development Corporation of Zambia (INDECO).

From November 1991 to May 1993, Magande managed the Zambia National Commercial Bank (ZNCB), the largest commercial bank in the country. Subsequently, he became the Executive Director of the Zambia Industrial & Mining Company Ltd (ZIMCO).

In May 1994, he made the shift to the private sector, working as a consultant. Later, in June 1994, he returned to government service as a Project Coordinator for the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Fisheries, under technical assistance from the African Development Bank.

Magande’s influence extended to the international stage when, from July 1996 until February 2000, he served as the Secretary-General of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific Group of States (ACP), headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. His extensive expertise allowed him to undertake consultancy work for various organizations, including SADC, COMESA, AU, UNDP, MEFMI, Maxwell Stamp, IMANI, and the governments of Zambia and Malawi between 2000 and 2003.

His dedication to global development continued, as from July 2011 to May 2012, he joined a 23-person global think tank established by the Centre for Global Development (CGD) in Washington DC, USA, to deliberate on “The Future of the International Development Association (IDA)” of the World Bank.

Ng’andu Peter Magande’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, both in Zambia and on the global stage. His remarkable journey from a young boy in the remote Zambian wilderness to a celebrated economist and leader is an inspiration for generations to come. Zambia will remember his contributions, and his legacy will continue to shape the nation’s economic and political landscape for years to come

Former Speaker of the National Assembly Amusaa Mwanamwambwa has Died

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The nation mourns the passing of Amusaa Mwanamwambwa, a prominent figure in Zambian politics and diplomacy, who died on Saturday night at Forest Park Hospital in Lusaka after a prolonged battle with cancer. His body has been relocated to Maina Soko Military Hospital as the country comes to terms with the loss of a distinguished statesman.

Mr. Mwanamwambwa, with a career spanning several decades, made significant contributions in various roles, including diplomacy, journalism, and as a Member of Parliament representing the Liuwa Constituency. His journey in politics saw him serve in various crucial ministerial positions, including Agriculture, Tourism, and Information.

Notably, Mr. Mwanamwambwa held the esteemed position of Speaker of the National Assembly from 1998 to 2011, setting a record as the longest-serving Speaker in the history of the country’s legislature.

The news of his passing was shared by the current Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, who expressed her deep sorrow at the loss of a dedicated public servant. Mrs. Mutti, who is currently attending an Inter-Parliamentary Union meeting in Luanda, Angola, immediately shortened her stay in response to the tragic news.

Clerk of the National Assembly, Roy Ngulube, issued a statement confirming the sad event and offering condolences to the bereaved family.

Before ascending to the role of Speaker, Amusaa Mwanamwambwa had a diverse career that included journalism and diplomatic service, where he served as a Press Attaché in the Foreign Service. As a Member of Parliament and a Minister in various government departments, he demonstrated dedication and commitment to the welfare of the Zambian people.

Vernon Mwaanga, a former Parliamentary Chief Whip, remembered Mr. Mwanamwambwa as a thoughtful, thorough, and professional individual. He acknowledged Mr. Mwanamwambwa’s legacy as a gentleman with exceptional personal and professional qualities.

Mr. Mwaanga extended his heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Cathy Mwanamwambwa and the entire Mwanamwambwa family during this difficult time.

File:President Rupiah Banda being ushered into Parliament by the Speaker of the National Assembly Amusa Mwanamwambwa

Kabwe Warriors Spear Champions Power Dynamos Down to Third Place

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Defending champions Power Dynamos have dropped three places down the FAZ Super Division table after posting their second consecutive defeat in the season.

Power on Sunday suffered a 2-0 loss to Kabwe Warriors in the Week 8 match at Godfrey ‘Ucar’ Chitalu Stadium in Kabwe.

Prior to the Week 8 fixtures, seventh placed Power were fourth on the table.

The Kitwe giants remained stuck on 12 points after playing eight matches.

Meanwhile, first half goals from Mwamba Mutombo and Ocean Mushure propelled Warriors to victory.

Coach Mumamba Numba’s side rises to number three on the table with 15 points in eight matches.

Elsewhere on Sunday, former champions Zesco United gave away a lead to draw 1-1 against Kansanshi Dynamos in Chingola.

League leaders Red Arrows have a one point lead at the top of the table after Saturday’s 4-0 win over Nkwazi.

Arrows moved to 17 points following their third straight victory.

FAZ SUPER DIVISION – WEEK 8

22/10/2023

Kansanshi Dynamos 1-1 Zesco United

Kabwe Warriors 2-0 Power Dynamos

21/10/2023

ZANACO 3-0 Konkola Blades

Red Arrows 4-0 Nkwazi

MUZA FC 1-0 Mufulira Wanderers

Nkana 1-1 NAPSA Stars

Forest Rangers 1-1 Trident FC

20/10/2023

Green Buffaloes 2-0 Green Eagles

Improving Nkana Cheers Coach Bakala

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Coach Ian Bakala believes his struggling Nkana side was improving despite failing to win so far in the FAZ Super Division season.

Nkana remained at the bottom of the table with three points in eight matches following a 1-1 against Napsa Stars in Lusaka on Saturday.

In a post-match comment, Bakala said Nkana must work harder to start winning matches.

He described the match against Napsa as tough while regretting the late goal Nkana allowed.

“It was a 50-50 match. Like you have seen we are building a team while Napsa have been together for a long time,” Bakala said.

“Going forward we just need to work extra hard. We will still pick up points it is just a phase. We have seen an improvement in the team. Today we scored first, I think the last games we were coming from behind,” he said.

Nkana are preparing to face Prison Leopards away in Kabwe this week.

Message for today: A Masterpiece

Today’s Scripture

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

A Masterpiece

Friend, psychologists say our self-worth is often based upon what we believe the most important people in our lives think of us—a parent, a spouse, a friend, or a mentor. The problem is that sooner or later people say something that cuts like a knife and brings heartache and pain, or they show by their actions that we’re not really that important. If we’re receiving our value and worth only from those who hurt us, we’ll likely feel inferior, insecure, and less and less valuable over time.

The key to gaining a true sense of value is to let your Heavenly Father be the most important person in your life. If you listen to what He says about you, you’ll feel accepted, approved, redeemed, forgiven, confident, and secure. You will feel extremely valuable, and that’s exactly the way God wants you to be, His masterpiece. You’ve been custom-made, one of a kind. You’re not average or ordinary. God created you in His very own image. And that is exactly how you should see yourself.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that because You have made me, there can be nothing ordinary about me. Thank You that I am Your child and created in Your image. I believe and declare that I am Your masterpiece, designed by You on purpose just the way I am. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”