Have you ever paused to think about what it really means to be made in the image of God? In a world that often measures worth by success, wealth, or popularity, it’s easy to feel like we fall short. But Genesis 1:26-27 offers us a profound truth:
“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness…’ So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”
This is where our true value begins—not in what we do, but in who we are as men created by God. Let’s unpack how this truth shapes our self-worth, how we see others, and how we live as Orthodox Christian men in today’s world.
You Are More Than Your Achievements
It’s tempting to define ourselves by our successes or failures. But being made in God’s image means that our worth doesn’t come from our accomplishments—it’s given to us by God. St. Athanasius reminds us in On the Incarnation:
“He has been manifested in a human body for this reason only, out of the love and goodness of His Father, for the salvation of us men.”
This means that your value is eternal, rooted in God’s love and goodness. When you understand this, it changes everything—it silences the lies of inadequacy and gives you a firm foundation for your identity.
The Image of God Shapes Our Relationships
Being made in God’s image doesn’t just affect how we see ourselves—it changes how we view others. The people we encounter daily—family, friends, coworkers, even strangers—are all reflections of God’s creativity. This truth challenges us to show love, patience, and respect, even when it’s difficult.
How would your interactions change if you truly saw everyone as bearing God’s image? What if you approached your relationships with the mindset that each person has inherent dignity?
Living in the Image of God
Challenge: This week, take one step to reflect the image of God in your life:
- Write down one characteristic of God you see in yourself and commit to using it to serve others.
- Choose one person you’ve struggled to love or forgive, and intentionally show them grace or kindness.
When you live out your identity as a man created in God’s image, you not only reflect His character—you inspire others to do the same.
A Worth That Cannot Be Shaken
Your worth doesn’t depend on what you achieve, how you look, or what others think of you. It’s rooted in the eternal truth that you are made in God’s image. This week, embrace this truth and let it shape the way you live, love, and lead.