"And God said, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of 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." Genesis 1: 26
Let's be honest – judging others is easy. Think about it: How often do we meet someone new and judge their looks, intelligence or career compared to ourselves? We place them on a scale, giving them value based on the world's criteria. Some measure up, while others don't. But God says that we are to look for HIM in others, whether they appear seemingly ordinary or incredibly talented. You see, through the vast diversity of people and personalities, God is displaying something of Himself through each and every one of us.
Think of the smallest and weakest person according to the world's eyes. Even he/she is displaying something glorious about the character and the nature of God. What about the person that you constantly disagree with—your office competitor or nemesis? Yes, even that individual is made in the image of God.
If every person we meet is made in the image of God, then we must treat every human being with dignity and honor – including ourselves.
When we understand that our lives are gifts from God, that changes how we live. When we see God's image in others, that changes our response to those around us. Our lives are not our own. We were created to reflect God's image. And whenever we put people down, whenever we use people for our own good, whenever we cheat, or gossip or judge someone's worth based on race or class or political opinion, we disrespect the image of God in them.
Are you struggling with judging and comparing yourself and others? Ask God for a perspective shift – because when we view ourselves and others through God's eyes, nothing looks the same.
