God created the world for a purpose. Philosophers, theologians and many others have speculated on exactly why the Lord, our God, created the heavens and the earth in the very beginning as described in the Book of Genesis. Perhaps he was bored since there was literally nothing to do. Scripture tells us why he created man and woman, but God alone knows his purpose for creating the world.
Created in God's Image
Have you thought much about the passage in Genesis 1:26 in which it clearly states God created mankind in his own image, his own likeness? That’s right. That awesome statement is there in the beginning of the Bible. You and I are created in God’s own image. And with that truth comes an equally awesome responsibility.
If God was a creator, the ultimate creator, then you and I are creators. The wonderful irony is that we are responsible for doing our parts as co-creators and coworkers in accomplishing God’s purpose even though the reason for his ultimate creation, the world itself, remains a mystery to us.
Three Ways We Co-Create and Work with God
There are three ways we co-create and are co-workers with God.
First, as the Book of Genesis makes clear, we are to take care of his creation. “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.”
Second, as God created man and woman after seeing the need for relationship, we create the world around us in relationships.
Third, and most importantly, God has given each of us the opportunity to help him create his Kingdom here on earth by giving us his son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
We Create by Influencing Others
You create your world by influencing the world around you. As someone made in the image of God, you have the power to influence yourself and the world around you by the choices you make and the actions you take.
You can be a positive or negative influence in how you take care of God’s earth, engage in relationships with your fellow human beings, and in helping to build his kingdom on earth. Everyone can be an influence in this way, using, not using, or abusing the resources and gifts God gives us.
We All Have Different Gifts
God works in different ways through each of us. We have all been given different gifts, abilities, and experiences. We should invest these wisely, honoring God as we bless, encourage, and strengthen others in love.
Yes, his purpose for creating the world may remain a mystery, but God’s purpose for creating us is clear. As we faithfully serve him, we use our gifts to glorify him, taking care of his creation, and attending to his Kingdom on earth by serving others.
Additional reading:
Listen to God's Words
The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; (Psalm 24:1)
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. (1 Peter 4:10)
For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. (1 Corinthians 3:9)
Also Read: 2 Chronicles 15:7, 2 Corinthians 5:20, Mark 4:26
In the Words of Others
“You are called to care for creation, not only as responsible citizens, but also as followers of Christ.” Pope Francis
“God intends…our care of creation to reflect our love for the creator.” John Stott
“We do not want a church that will move with the world. We want a church that will move the world.” G. K. Chesterton
Think About It
Recall times when you made a difference in caring for God’s earth, serving others, and contributing to building God’s Kingdom on earth.
How do you feel about this? Will this change what you do going forward?
Name three ways you can be a positive influence in your family, social, and professional life spheres.
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