In His Own Image

One of the most powerful Biblical truths is found in Genesis 1:27--So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. From this, there are several realities that we must allow to take shape in our lives.

First, we must realize that we are the prize of God's creation. We didn't evolve from some lower species; mankind was the centerpiece of God's creation. His intention was to bless us with dominion over every other living creature (v. 28-30). Up to this point in God's creation, He had deemed everything to be good. Then after God created man, He declared his creation to be very good (v. 31).

Secondly, we must realize that God cares for us and wants us to draw close to him (James 4:8). He knows our needs and stands ready to meet them (Luke 12:28-30). He doesn't want us to be afraid of what might happen, but rather He wants us to rest in the security of his everlasting goodness, mercy and grace (Isaiah 41:10, 13) (Romans 8:28). He wants us to boldy approach him in prayer so that we may find the peace that passes all understanding (Hebrews 4:16, Philippians 4:6-7).

And above all, God wants to transform us into the image of his Son, Jesus Christ. Because we are born with a sinful nature, God's desire for our lifetime is to grow in Christ-likeness; to allow our thoughts, words and actions to be modeled after the person of Jesus Christ. This allows us to be image-bearers of the One who created us in his own image.