We Are God's Beloved Child
Genesis 1:27 (NIV) – "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."
Being made in the image of God is a profound truth, but what does that really mean for us? Since God is not human, His image in us isn’t about our physical appearance. Instead, it reflects His nature—His moral character, spiritual depth, and intellectual wisdom. These are the aspects of God that He has planted within us.
When we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, our spirits are born again. This rebirth aligns us with the qualities that reflect God’s image: His goodness, His wisdom, and His love. We are His children—not so that we may be worshiped, but so we may work His will on this earth. As His children, we are called to spread His love, perform His works, and set others free from the bondage of sin.
Our Heavenly Father desires a relationship with us, one built on love, grace, and truth. He does not force us into this relationship but allows us to choose Him with our free will. When we choose God, we step into the fullness of His love, and we carry out His will with purpose and power.
But what of those who refuse this gift? Jesus Himself addressed this in John 8:43-47 (NCV), where He speaks plainly about the consequences of rejecting His message. It is a sobering reminder that without Jesus, we remain under the influence of darkness, separated from the truth and love of our Heavenly Father. The decision to follow Christ is not just about where we will spend eternity—it is about who we belong to in this life.
As beloved children of God, our identity is rooted in Him. Let us walk in His truth, reflecting His image in everything we do, not only to live in the light ourselves but to help others find their way to freedom.
Reflection:
Are you living as a child of God, reflecting His love and truth to others?
How can you use your free will to choose God more fully in your daily life?
Prayer:
Father, thank You for making me in Your image and calling me Your beloved child. Help me to walk in Your truth, to reflect Your love, and to bring others into Your light. Guide me to do Your will, not for my glory, but for Yours alone. In Jesus' name, Amen.
