We are all “poems” written by a loving creator—embrace Him
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
(Ephesians 2:10)
I am constantly amazed at God’s world. From cycles to seasons, from the smallest ant to the largest thunderstorm roaring across the prairie, His creation is utterly incredible!
I am lucky enough to live not too far from beautiful Lake McConaughy, a true gem in Nebraska. Not only does the lake proclaim the hand of God in the summer, with all of its beauty and wildlife, but also in the winter.
The picture at right was taken by Ogallala resident Scott Eveland during the cold snap that went through this area last week.
The entire 23-mile long lake looked as if it had a huge cloud hanging over it during this day. However, it was steam rising from the lake.
After doing some research on this phenomenon, I discovered that the clouds of steam you see rising from cold water generally occur over a lake or a river that is still unfrozen where a very cold air mass has moved in. The water has vapor pressure, so it is continuously evaporating, however when it enters the colder air, the air can’t hold that much water so you see the clouds of steam above cold water in the even colder air.
What an incredibly beautiful site created by the hand of God!
Although nature is amazing, and God worthy of receiving our awe and praise over such beauty and creativity, there is yet something else from God’s hand that is far superior to nature—YOU.
Yes, you are God’s true workmanship!
In Ephesians, Paul speaks of us as God’s workmanship, which in Greek means poiema. Poiema means “something made” and in this sense, something made by God.
The word poiema is where we get our English words poem and poetry. So, really, each of us is a unique masterpiece, like a unique poem, purposefully created by God. This very fact should change how each of us sees ourselves and others around us.
As it says in Psalm 139:14, we are “fearfully and wonderfully made,” and not just willy-nilly made, but made to resemble the image or likeness of God Himself.
In Genesis 1:26, God says, “Let us make man in OUR image, in OUR likeness.”
God formed man from the dust and gave him life by sharing His own breath, according to Genesis 2:7.
So not only are we uniquely made, but we are also made to resemble our maker. Not resembling God in a sense of God having flesh and blood, because “God is spirit” (John 4:24), but resembling God in our spirit and also enabling us to commune with our Maker.
God has placed knowledge of Himself within the heart of each human being.
Everyone has a conscience, and this conscience gives us awareness of what is right and what is wrong—whether you are a Christian or not.
This awareness of right and wrong is another way that God gives testimony of Himself to humanity, as well as through His nature.
“Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law. They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them. This will take place on the day when God judges people’s secrets through Jesus Christ....” Romans 2:14-16
Although each of us is created in the image of God, and has the conscience of God within us, some will continue to ignore God, turning their backs on Him, and live for themselves and this carnal world. Where do you stand? You can try ignoring the question as long as you like, but ultimately, we must all choose as some point. Don’t turn your back on God another day! Don’t turn your back on a loving Father who created you, His unique “poem”, and sent His Son to die in your place so you can be with Him forever in Heaven. Turn to Him, embrace Him, and rest in Him. There is no where safer or better to be than in the arms of a Father who loves you immensely.