Genesis 1:26–27 ‘So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.’ (v27)
Look around your room you will no doubt see various appliances that are designed to make our lives function more smoothly.
The purpose of the gadget is clear and, although when new you may require some instruction in how to operate it, very quickly you get into the habit.
If there are other human beings in your house, what are they there for?! Joking aside, humans also have a purpose, not as gadgets to make life easy, but as image-bearers created by God for a particular role.
Our passage today outlines how God intends us to live. Scholars disagree over exactly what being made in the image of God might mean, but it is clear that we resemble God in our essential characteristics.
We are relational, physical, emotional, volitional, rational and spiritual beings. An understanding of this is a healthy basis for seeing who we are and understanding why things go wrong.
The Integrative Framework* is based on this thinking and has been an enormous help to many in assessing their purpose under God and why areas of life have gone awry.
God intended you to partner with Him in spreading His love and goodness in the world. Although humanity marred its relationship with God, Jesus came to restore our humanity and enable us to enjoy God’s purpose once again. Are you in line with that purpose?
A Prayer To Make:
‘Thank You, Lord, that I have a special purpose as Your child.
Help me to partner with You in Your plans for the world. Amen.’
An Action To Take:
Think about your last few days. Did you see yourself as partnering with God to make a difference?
Scripture To Consider:
Gen. 9:1–7; Ps. 8; Col. 3:5–17; 1 Pet. 1:13–25
