Friday, March 2, 2012

Man: Made by God and for God



READ: PSALM 139:1-10

Our culture greatly values outward appearance and athletic prowess. As a result, may of us think negatively about our bodies. We compare ourselves with others and conclude we do not measure up to society's ideal. Such unhealthy comparisons can lead us into an emotional downward spiral. But the Lord sees things differently.

First, God made us - male and female - in his His image, and then called what He had created "good" (Gen. 1:31). He knitted each of us in the womb (Ps. 13(:13) no one is exactly like anyone else. From the Lord's perspective, we are each uniquely made, with both value and purpose.

Second, our importance to the Father is seen in His son's sacrifice on our behalf. Christ shed His blood and paid for our sins so that we might be set free from the penalty and power of sin. God loved us so much that He sent Jesus to take our place on the cross (1 John 4:10).

Finally, God designed man to be in relationship with Him. Adam and Eve lived in the garden and had communion with theCreator. Abraham followed the Lord and was called God's friend (James 2:23). Through faith in Jesus, we have become children of God and co-heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17) Our whole being - body, soul, and spirit - belongs to Him.

The media bombards us with how to be prettier, stronger, and more popular. But such pursuits don't bring lasting satisfaction. Contentment is found when we remember how precious we are to God" He created us, our Savior died for us, and the Holy Spirit lives in us.
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from Intouch Magazine, August 2011

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