" MAN " Dust From The Ground

Come on in and stay awhile, with the Lords help we just might learn something new about ourselves. In what way are we made in God's Image? God obviously did not create us exactly like himself because God has no physical body. Instead, we are reflections of God's glory. Some feel that our reason, Creativity, Speech, or Self-Determination is the Image Of God. More likely, it is our entire self that reflects the Image Of God. We will never be totally like God because He is our Supreme Creator. But we do have the ability to reflect His Character in our Love, Patience, Forgiveness and Faithfulness. Knowing that we are made in God's Image and thus share many of His Characteristics provide a solid basis for self-worth. Human worth is not based on Possessions, Achievements, Physical Attractiveness, or Public Acclaim, Instead it is based on being made in God's Image. Because we bear God's image, we can feel positive about ourselves. Criticizing or downgrading ourselves is Criticizing what God has made and Abilities He has given us. Knowing that you are a person of Worth helps you Love God, know him personally, and make a Valuable Contribution to those around you. Now, " Dust From The Ground " implies that there is nothing fancy about the chemical elements making up our bodies. The body is a lifeless shell until God brings it alive with his " Breath Of Life. " When God removes His Life-Giving breath, our bodies once again return to dust. Therefore our life and worth come from God's Spirit. Many boast of their achievements and abilities as though they were the originators of their own strengths. Others feel worthless because their abilities do not stand out. In reality our worth comes not from our achievements but from the God of the universe, who choose to give us the mysterious and miraculous gift of life, as he does. Until Next Time... Jim,