In the Image of God

What is an image?  An image is a picture or drawing of something, to represent that object.  Such as a painting, a photo, or a sketch.  To be "in the image of" something means to appear like that object in every way.  But for Christians, to be In the Image of God means more than in appearance.

It means to be in God's likeness in every way.

In our actions, in our thoughts, in our mannerisms, in our personalities...in our souls, we must be in the image of God.

Why?  Why is it so important for us as Christians to be in God's image?

Matthew 5:16 says:  "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."  God wants us to be lights to others, to be an example of Him so that others can see God's glory and power.  In order to show people something, must we not look and act like it?

The popular game of Charades comes to mind.  The goal is to accurately portray a person, place, or object so others can guess what it is...without using words.  Only actions may be performed.  Isn't this a lot like our life today as Christians?  In order for others to "guess" or realize God through us, we must not only use words but actions. 

So now that we know why must be in God's image, how do we do it? How do we portray an accurate image of God?

James 2:14, 17 says:  "What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds?  Can such faith save him?"  "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."  We as Christians share one faith...but faith alone is not enough.  We need to do our actions in accordance with God's will as well.  Actions are a large part of our portraying God.

What better list of Godly actions than the fruits of the Spirit?  Galatians 5:22:  "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."  In all things, we are called to do it in this manner.

What about thoughts?  Are those part of portraying God accurately?  I mean, nobody can see those, right?

God can.  You can keep a thought from everyone except God.  And if God sees you thinking unrighteous thoughts, you know He's not going to say "Hey he looks like me."  Controlling are thoughts are another important part of accurately portraying God.

Philippians 4:8-9 highlights on this exact topic"  "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things."  According to this passage, our very thoughts should constantly be on things that are good in God's eyes.   Remember...what God sees as good we must see as good, and we must think about these things, for this is what God think about.  Next time you have a dirty though or inappropriate comment or cut-down enter your mind, think, "Would God think like this?"

Actions, thoughts, and words....three BIG ways for us as Christians to accurately portray God in our lives.  Let's work on all of them more each day.

-Grego