Devotions this week based on the Message: “BELIEVE: Week 7: Humanity”
(NOTE: This sermon series and devotional series is based on a book by Randy Frazee entitled, “BELIEVE.”
You may choose to download or purchase the book as a supplement to your worship and devotional emails.)
Want a different perspective?
Yesterday’s outlook on humanity wasn’t all that great. It is sad that much of our culture has bought into this subconscious view of who they are and who the people around them are.
But what does the Bible say? How does a biblical worldview of humanity stand in glorious difference to the humanistic mindset? Today through Friday, I’d like to use Martin Luther’s explanations to the Apostle’s Creed to reflect on biblical truth that makes more sense, gives more value, and exemplifies a glorious purpose for humanity.
A key start is our origin. We were not a product of chance, but the design of the imagination of the almighty God.
Without any apologies, the Bible begins with the reality of God:
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
There is no need for billions of years, random mutations, and goo to become you. In the matter of 7, 24 hour days (evolution and creation don’t mix…days were not long period of time…but another discussion for another time!) God’s intricate engineering and design came to reality in perfect form, balance and precision.
Including you.
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “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.”
27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.
So which would you rather believe about you and humanity? Product of random chance or product of a divine Creator?
Our Christian confession put it this way:
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.
Martin Luther expanded on what this statement means about us and all humanity.
What does this mean? I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still takes care of them. He also gives me clothing and shoes, food and drink, house and home, wife and children, land, animals, and all I have. He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life. He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil. All this He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this it is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him.
The amazing thing is that not only did God design and initiate your being and that of all humanity, he is the one behind preserving it. He takes care of it. He provides what I need. He didn’t abandon me to fend for myself, but put around me plants to eat, put in me a mind to think, put on me hands to work so that life may continue. (Consider how this contrasts with the culture around that believes it is the sole force controlling climate, growing, scientific discovery, and the like.)
Notice Luther also highlights the Lord’s willingness to defend us. You only defend what you find valuable.
A biblical belief of humanity tells us we are special creations of the Almighty God who loves you so much he provides you and willing to defend you…all because he loves you.
This is most certainly true.
Apply: How do these truths about humanity change how you interact with people today?
Prayer: Lord God thank you for your love for me and all humanity to create us in your image, provide for us daily, and protect us from harm and evil. AMEN.