This verse (and even more so the chapter that follows it) gives us a context for our lives. We, as inhabitants of the earth, are part of the stuff that God created. God chose to create us - he didn't have to, but he did - along with the stars and the "creatures that move along the ground". This means that, in God's economy, we have a purpose - our lives and existence have meaning. The Bible is quick to tell us what that purpose is...
"Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over [the rest of the animal kingdom]." (Genesis 1:28)
We are image-bearers. Our purpose is to reflect what God is like to the rest of the created order. Can there be a more honourable task? Could there ever be a greater privilege?
For reflection:
- Read from Genesis 1:1 up to 2:3. Does the passage raise any questions for you? What does it tell you about God?
- What does the fact that you have been created by God tell you about your relationship with him?
- How are you doing with your God-appointed purpose? What would help you with this?