“Image”
One of the greatest words in Genesis 1 is the word ‘image’. Look at how the writer uses it in verse 26-27: “Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” Three times we see that word ‘image’.
What is an image? Google defines the word in two ways: firstly “a representation of the external form of a person or thing in art” – so, a photograph of somebody is their image – it’s not actually them, it’s just a likeness of them. I think this is what God was getting at when he made us in his image. He made us to be little photographs of himself. So that when people see us, they get an idea of what God looks like.
Reflect God's Image
Now, I don’t mean that in a physical sense. I don’t mean that our human bodies look like God. God is Spirit, not flesh, and so we can’t think that being made in God’s image means to look like him in our bodies.
Instead, we are to bear God’s image in our ways. We are to live with his values. The second definition that Google gives for the word ‘image’ is: “the general impression that a person, organization, or product presents to the public”. So the question is, is the general impression that you give you the public a godly one? Are you seeking to show God in His glory and His perfection and His goodness to the world through your life?
This is a big responsibility, and I hope you’re sensing that as I speak. Think of it – we are called to give the world the image of God, the general impression of who God is. Each one of us has this capability – but here’s the thing: when Adam and Eve sinned against God, the image of God within us was broken and our sinful nature became the thing that took us over. And so now we need salvation, we need somebody who can help us be restored into the image of God.
Here's the good news: Jesus is that person! Jesus’ offer of redemption for you and me is not an offer to make us the centre of the world. It’s to restore the image of God in us, so that as we live, people see God through us.
Restore God's Image
You can only bear God’s image properly by placing your faith in the Redeemer Jesus, and being filled with His Spirit. Living a Spirit-filled life allows us to be image-bearers again.
So today, acknowledge that God’s original design for us was broken by sin, and only Jesus can mend it. Then run to Jesus! Believe in His power. Ask for His healing in your heart, and ask that He restore God’s image within you.
He is faithful, and He will do it, when you believe.
