TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
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.” Genesis 1:26
Read: Genesis 1:26
Listen: Genesis 1
TODAY’S MESSAGE
At creation, God made humans in his image. In other words, all human beings have the image of God in them and are worthy of dignity and respect. This passage, at least in part, motivated the second of the three siblings—Gregory. Gregory was an intellectual giant and fought against slavery in word and deed. His actions and teachings had such an impact that no Christian could enslave a person in his region. A few centuries later, Elgius continued this work by freeing enslaved people using all he had.
It’s a tragedy that slavery was revived on an industrial scale in the 17th century and that Christians were complicit. Stories like those above and others demonstrate what it looks like to be transformed by the gospel and use our word and actions as a light to the world amidst tragedy. They understood the value and worth of all human beings, and their actions were revolutionary. This same concept should shape how we view those around us and cause us to value everyone regardless of political leaning, social status, nationality, race or religious beliefs. Each person is made in God’s image and worthy of dignity and respect.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Seeing people through the lens of the image of God can revolutionize how we treat others. Reflect on what groups of people you need to remember are made in his image. Confess this to God and ask for his help to live in a way that values others as he does. “God, I praise you that all people are made in your image. I confess I struggle to see _______________ as made in your image. Help me see and value others the way you do in my thoughts, words and actions.”
2023 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES
Join us all of 2023 developing a different spiritual practice each month. SPIRITUAL PRACTICES are intentional regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus.
November is BIBLE MEDITATION. Keep track of our spiritual practices at beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
