Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over every living creature that moves on the ground…So, in the image of God, he created them; male and female, he created them. God blessed them….“—Genesis 1:26, 27, 28 (NIV)
In the Ancient Near East, it was believed that images contained the essence of that which they represented. In fact, ancient kings would put images of themselves in places in order to claim their territory, control, and rule in those places.
So, the fact that you were created in the image of God means that you are meant to bear God’s essence wherever he has placed you.
You were designed to represent God and act on his behalf in this world. You were created to display God's character and nature to the world in desperate need of him.
We typically think of the terms “image” and “likeness” as the same thing. But image typically means essence—God’s character. Likeness means a physical similarity. In other words, somehow, you look like God! Isn’t that an incredible thought? Before you did anything right or good before you were even born,
God designed you to resemble him. That should give you a sense of great dignity.
You are not a mistake. You are not an afterthought. In fact, it’s been said that a great work of art is a masterpiece when the artist puts herself in the art. In the same way, you are a masterpiece of God’s own making.
Have you ever noticed that everything God made was for a purpose? The sun, moon, and stars were created to light the skies and govern the days and nights. The land was created to produce vegetation, and those plants were created to bear fruit. Even water was created with a purpose—to keep us alive and to teem with living creatures. Similarly, you were created with a specific purpose in mind. If you don’t yet know your purpose, God is not trying to hide that from you. Ask him for help and guidance. Ask your community what they think your purpose might be. And start living on purpose, with purpose, and for a purpose.
When God created man and women, he spoke a blessing of goodness over them. Don’t ever believe the lie that God is withholding goodness from you or that you have to pry blessing from his hands. He pronounces blessing and favor freely and abundantly over all who call upon the name of Jesus. So spend time with him, enjoy him, and live on a mission for him. You will find that his goodness and blessing are yours in Christ.
What’s also implied in the above verses is what God creates, he names. Genesis 5:2 reminds us that God named humankind when he made us. And throughout scripture, we see God naming or renaming his creation. In the ancient world, a person's name was wrapped up with distinguishing characteristics about them or who they would become. Also, to name something meant you had authority over their destiny. As a follower of Jesus,
God is your Namer—which means that even when the world tries to tear you down, you have been irrevocably named God’s own.
God has named you, which means he declares his unique authority over your life, his good and perfect plan for you, and his power to make all things work for your good. Worship him today.
Hold your head high, child of God. Walk tall. You were created with such wonder.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/RyanJLane
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