Introduction:

- Good morning! Today, I want to discuss something of utmost importance... something that shapes our identity as believers.

And that is the undeniable truth that we are created in the likeness of God.

This means that we reflect certain characteristics and qualities of God, setting us apart from all other creatures.

As we dive into this topic today, let us do so with open hearts and minds

because I believe that grasping the full meaning of being made in God's image can have a profound impact on our lives.

First, let us begin by clearly defining what it truly means to be created in the image of God.

Created in His Image:

Genesis 1:27 ESV

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.

- Definition of "image of God":

Being created in God's image implies that we possess certain qualities and characteristics that reflect His nature.

It suggests that we have the ability to relate to God and to others in a unique way.

Unlike any other living beings, we have the potential to exhibit moral and spiritual qualities that align with God's attributes.

being created in God's image conveys a sense of purpose and responsibility which we will dive into later on

- Example: Just as a mirror reflects our physical appearance, we reflect God's image in who we are.

- Emphasizing the magnitude of being created in His image:

Church do you understand that by us being made in his image it means we are not mere accidents

We are not a random product of evolution.

We are intentionally crafted by a loving God,

That means we have immense value and purpose.

- Example: Similar to a beautiful painting or sculpture skillfully created by an artist, we are intentionally crafted by God.

Now that we understand that we are made in God's image, let’s explore the intricacy and wonder of His creation.

Turn with me to psalm 139

Psalm 139 NASB

For the choir director. A Psalm of David. O Lord, Thou hast searched me and known me. Thou dost know when I sit down and when I rise up; Thou dost understand my thought from afar. Thou dost scrutinize my path and my lying down, And art intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O Lord, Thou dost know it all. Thou hast enclosed me behind and before, And laid Thy hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it. Where can I go from Thy Spirit? Or where can I flee from Thy presence? If I ascend to heaven, Thou art there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, Thou art there. If I take the wings of the dawn, If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, Even there Thy hand will lead me, And Thy right hand will lay hold of me. If I say, “Surely the darkness will overwhelm me, And the light around me will be night,” Even the darkness is not dark to Thee, And the night is as bright as the day. Darkness and light are alike to Thee. For Thou didst form my inward parts; Thou didst weave me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to Thee, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Thy works, And my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from Thee, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth. Thine eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Thy book they were all written, The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them. How precious also are Thy thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand. When I awake, I am still with Thee. O that Thou wouldst slay the wicked, O God; Depart from me, therefore, men of bloodshed. For they speak against Thee wickedly, And Thine enemies take Thy name in vain. Do I not hate those who hate Thee, O Lord? And do I not loathe those who rise up against Thee? I hate them with the utmost hatred; They have become my enemies. Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way.

Do you understand that you and I are

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made:

In this Psalm, David praises God for creating him in an extraordinary and unique manner.

Our bodies, from the smallest building blocks to the way our organs work together, are incredibly intricate and show the amazing craftsmanship of God.

We are not accidental or random combinations of matter.

We are purposefully created by a loving and artistic God.

But what does it truly mean to be fearfully and wonderfully made?

And how does this understanding provide us with a clear sense of purpose and value?

Let’s dive in a little deeper.

Created with Purpose and Value:

- Discussing God's intention in creating us:

God did not bring us into existence for the sake of it.

He desired for us to reflect His love, grace, and character in the world.

- Recognizing the value God places on each person:

Every individual, regardless of their background, possesses inherent worth. God loves us so deeply that He sent Jesus to save us and restore our relationship with Him.

- Example: Sharing stories of individuals who have experienced God's love and grace, and how it has transformed their lives.

For instance, the story of the Apostle Paul, who was originally a persecutor of Christians but had a life-changing encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus.

This encounter transformed him into one of the most influential figures in spreading the message of God's love and grace.

- someone needs to hear this

Your identity stems from God's purpose, not society

Our worth and identity are not determined by our achievements or appearance.

Our worth is achieved from living out the purpose for which God created us.

Understanding that we are fearfully and wonderfully made holds significant implications for our identity.

It means that we are not accidental or arbitrary beings in this world.

Instead, we are intentionally designed with unique qualities and abilities.

This understanding provides us with a clear sense of purpose, for it reveals that we were created with a specific reason.

We are not here by chance;

we have a role to fulfill and contributions to make to the world around us.

Our existence is not meaningless or purposeless, but rather purpose-filled and valuable.

So, as we reflect on the truth that we are fearfully and wonderfully made in God's image, let us embrace our identity and purpose with confidence.

Let us recognize the immense value that God has placed on each and every one of us.

And let us live our lives in a way that reflects the love, grace, and character of our Creator.

understanding this truth should shape our perspectives,

It should guide our decisions, and inspire us to make a positive impact in the world.

we are to walk in the truth that we are uniquely designed by God, with purpose and value beyond measure.

when we fully embrace and live out the reality of being fearfully and wonderfully made,

we will truly experience the abundant life that God has intended for us.

Summary:

In summary, understanding that we are fearfully and wonderfully made in God's image is a powerful truth that shapes who we are and why we are here.

It reminds us that we are not accidents, but rather intentional creations made by a loving God.

This understanding gives us a clear sense of purpose and value, showing us that we have a unique role to play in the world.

It empowers us to embrace who we are with confidence and live in a way that reflects God's love and character.

When we fully embrace this truth, we will experience a fulfilling and meaningful life that God has planned for us.

Invitation:

I want to extend an invitation to anyone who may be hearing this message and feeling a stirring in their hearts.

If you have never embraced the truth that you are fearfully and wonderfully made by God, or if you have strayed from that understanding, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on your life and make a decision today.

Choose to embrace your identity as a beloved creation of God and invite Him into your life.

If you desire to experience the abundant life that God has intended for you, I invite you to pray with me:

"Dear God, I come before you today recognizing that I am fearfully and wonderfully made in your image. I acknowledge that I am not an accident, but a deliberate creation crafted by your love and grace. I confess that I have strayed from this truth and have not lived in a way that reflects your character.

Today, I choose to embrace my identity as your beloved child. I invite you into my life, to guide my decisions, and to help me live in a way that reflects your love and grace. I ask for forgiveness for my past mistakes and for the strength to walk in the path you have set for me.

Thank you, God, for loving me unconditionally and for the purpose you have given me. I surrender my life to you and ask for your presence and guidance every step of the way. In Jesus' name, amen."

If you have prayed this prayer or have any questions, I encourage you to reach out to a trusted spiritual leader or mentor who can provide guidance and support. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are people who are ready to walk alongside you.

Church embrace the fact that you are fearfully and wonderfully made.

Let this truth guide how you see yourself, make decisions, and impact others.

Remember that you are uniquely designed by God with a purpose that has immeasurable value.

Live your life in a way that reflects God's love and grace, and you will find joy and fulfillment.

I encourage you to go out there, empowered by this truth, and make a positive difference in the lives of those around you.