I was recently challenged by the question, “What does it mean to be made in God’s image” (Genesis 1:27)? If we truly were living as the beings we were created to be, how would God’s image manifest itself in our daily lives? I came up with a list of things that would be true in my life. It was an interesting and revealing exercise, making me very aware of where I may be missing the mark. Being made in the image of God should dictate our actions and have a profound influence on the way we treat others. Below is the list I came up with of what my life will look like when I am reflecting His image. I’ve turned these into a set of mantra’s I read each morning to set my attitude for the day.
I love people regardless of how they treat me.
I forgive people, no matter how many times they offend.
I speak up for those with no voice.
I work to loose the chains of oppression and injustice.
I care for the needs of others.
I keep no record of wrongs.
I build people up, not tear them down.
I invest myself in others and invite them to join in my own life.
I give generously of all God has entrusted to me.
I love the unlovable and touch the untouchable.
I stand resolutely for justice and truth.
I show compassion to orphans, widows, and children.
I point others to God and demonstrate His wisdom.
I show mercy.
I demonstrate unending patience.
I am zealous for the truth.
I am tireless in my pursuit of sharing Christ.
I accept all just as they are.
I ascribe infinite worth to all.
I wish I could say I am flawlessly carrying out each one of these affirmations. The truth is I struggle with almost all of them. Yet as people made in the image of God, these represent our true character, the person we were created to be. This is our true self, the one we have allowed to be hidden behind our selfishness and materialism. We’ve fallen away from who we truly are and settled for an ugly counterfeit that is without purpose or meaning.
Each of us has been made in the image of God. There are no exceptions. We bear His image. The degree to which we reflect Him to the world is directly proportionate to the amount of His light we have emanating from within. As we let go of the things of this world, we become free to shine for Him. We become free to be the person He created us to be. We were made in the image of God. Perhaps it’s time we started living this truth so we can impact the world with His beauty and His glory. It’s what we were created to do.
What other ways should being created in the image of God be manifested in our lives? You can share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.