In what ways can we honor God's image in others around us? Lift Your Eyes to God’s Design Psalm 8:5 reminds us, “You made him a little lower than the angels; You crowned him with glory and honor.” Every person you meet bears that God-given crown. Recognizing it—and responding to it—shapes the way we live together. See the Imprint of the Creator • Genesis 1:26-27 shows God’s deliberate choice: “Let Us make man in Our image.” • Because His image is stamped on everyone, worth is not earned; it is bestowed. • James 3:9 cautions that we can’t praise God while cursing people “who have been made in God’s likeness.” Our words reveal whether we truly see the image or ignore it. Honor Through Words • Speak with respect—even in disagreement. (Ephesians 4:29) • Refuse gossip and slander; they chip away at the dignity God gave. (Proverbs 16:28) • Offer encouragement that builds up, because God crowns each soul with honor. (1 Thessalonians 5:11) Honor Through Actions • Serve practical needs (Galatians 5:13). Jesus ties service to Himself: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.” (Matthew 25:40) • Defend the vulnerable; to oppress is to insult the Maker. (Proverbs 14:31) • Practice hospitality without favoritism. (Romans 12:10, 13) Honor Through Attitudes • Reject prejudice and partiality. (James 2:1-4) • Celebrate God-given diversity while affirming equal value. (1 Corinthians 12:12-26) • See each person as a potential recipient of God’s redemption. (2 Peter 3:9) Honor Through Stewardship • Your body is “a temple of the Holy Spirit.” Treat others’ bodies with the same reverence. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) • Handle resources and authority for others’ good, not self-gain. (Philippians 2:3-4) • Promote justice, knowing God loves righteousness. (Psalm 11:7) Honor Through Forgiveness • Forgive as Christ forgave you. (Colossians 3:13) • Restoration respects the image of God even in those who wrong us. • Mercy mirrors God’s own heart toward image-bearers. (Micah 6:8) Honor Through Discipleship • Encourage growth in Christ; help others reflect His image more clearly. (Colossians 3:10) • Teach truth lovingly; correction honors the soul’s potential. (2 Timothy 2:24-25) • Walk alongside the struggling, showing the patience God shows you. (Romans 15:1-2) Living It Out Today Settle it in your heart: every face you encounter has been “crowned with glory and honor.” Let that conviction guide your speech, your service, your attitudes, and your daily decisions. In honoring the image of God in others, you honor the God who formed them—and you. |
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