Days 46 and 47 - A Self-Image in the Image of God

Yesterday was crazy hectic, both at work and at home. So today's blog combines both days.

I am reading the book of Genesis. Genesis 1:27 says, "So God created man in His own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female."

Ruth A. Tucker discusses this passage in "A Self-Image in the Image of God," found in my Women's Daily Devotional reading.

God created man (and woman) in His own image. What an awesome reality that is! There I am in the first chapter of the Bible -- a woman -- distinguished from animals, from my male counterpart, and literally created in the image of God. Certainly womanhood was no afterthought with God.

Unfortunately, that image of God often bears virtually no resemblance to our own self-image. The reason for that is because many of us suffer from a low self-image. But how can our self-image be low when we contemplate the image of God in which we were created? I find that my self-esteem is lowest when I am least reflecting the image of God. My self-esteem has very little to do with the temporary ego-boosting gratification that comes with awards, promotions, bonuses, and new clothes. These are the temporary "uppers" of the "me-generation."

I feel best about myself when I have selflessly reached out to someone in need and given with no thought of reward or "self." It is only when my "self" is submerged that God's image begins to shine forth. Then I have a healthy self-image that truly reflects God's image.