Devotional - Reflecting God's Kingdom - Genesis 1:26-28

 

Devotional: Reflecting God’s Kingdom through Our Calling

Scripture: Genesis 1:26-28

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.’ So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Then God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.’”

Devotional Thought

From the very beginning, God revealed His plan for humanity to live as stewards of His creation. Created in His image, we were designed to reflect His character, authority, and love over the earth. These verses from Genesis show us that God’s kingdom is not merely a place but a way of living where His rule, wisdom, and presence are made manifest through His people.

Adam and Eve’s charge to “fill the earth and subdue it” was not an invitation to exploit but a divine calling to partner with God in spreading His goodness and order. Through their relationship with Him, they were to cultivate the earth as an extension of His kingdom—a realm where God’s glory and purposes would be reflected in every corner of creation.

This mission is still ours today. As followers of Christ, who proclaimed the coming of God’s Kingdom, we are called to reflect His image in our lives and engage the world with His love, grace, and truth. Every act of stewardship, justice, and compassion reflects the reality of God’s kingdom, reminding others of the King who reigns in love and righteousness.

Application

1. Recognize Your Identity in Christ: You are made in the image of God, called to reflect His character and authority in your daily life. How does this truth shape the way you see yourself and your role in the world?

2. Live as a Steward of God’s Creation: Take practical steps to care for the environment, your community, and the people around you. This is a tangible way of participating in God’s kingdom work.

3. Be Fruitful and Multiply Spiritually: While these verses speak to physical multiplication, they also remind us of the call to make disciples. How can you share the love of Christ and His kingdom values with those around you?

Prayer

Father, thank You for creating us in Your image and calling us to partner with You in reflecting Your kingdom on earth. Help us to walk in the authority and purpose You’ve given us, caring for creation and spreading Your love wherever we go. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done in and through us, just as it is in heaven. Amen.

Reflection Question

How can you live today in a way that reflects God’s Kingdom and brings His presence into the world around you?