Devotional

You Are Created

Ready 

“Then the Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man’s nostrils, and the man became a living person.”  -- Genesis 2:7

Set 

Ever wonder where you came from? Besides the obvious, do you wonder whether your life really has purpose or meaning? As coaches and athletes, you can get bogged down by playbook after playbook, perfecting your skills as best you can, pouring everything you have into your sport because, from all outside appearances, that’s where you get the most recognition.

This can’t be the way we’re intended to live, is it? Constantly on the teeter-totter of performing to belong only to be tossed about by the highs and lows of changing opinions? Does it matter? Does who you are matter?

Yes. You matter. You are made with a grand design in mind. And you are meant for so much more.

God created the world.

For you to believe that you are created in personal ways and for good things, you need to believe there is a Creator.

Look around you. The trees, the sky, the season, your hands—where did they originate? Certainly, their designs are too intricate to come from chance. So chances are, someone gave great thought and care to crafting all things along with the cosmos.

First, a void. A stagnant nothingness. But the Spirit of God hovered, waiting. Then, a voice spoke into the silence, calling for light. A calling into being, breaking apart what we know as day and night. And God, the voice bringing meaning from nothing, called it good.

God created you in His image.

God intentionally fashioned man and woman in His image, to create and fulfill good works He prepared for them. One of the biggest differences between human creation and the creation of landforms, plants and animals is this: God’s breath began our life.

The God who made all things took the utmost care to come close and craft us. If you’ve been influenced by who others tell you they think you are, you won’t get the accurate picture. If you try and be who your teammates or fellow coaches think you should be, that won’t feel right, either.

God’s opinion of you should hold the most influence—what He says, goes. This will bring you peace and fulfillment. God says you are created in His image, wonderfully made and His child. Nothing can separate you from His love, and He has great plans for your life.

There is more in store for you.

God created you for a purpose.

There are things God has in store for you that only you can experience. Created in His image, you are priceless, intentional and valued. You were made for relationship with God, to know Him in deep and personal ways and to represent Him to a world in need of His love and truth.

God has an eternal plan that is being carried out today, and you’re a part of it. You have a role to play as He brings the good news of Jesus. Other people get to see Him through your life.

You are God’s masterpiece. He saw you before the beginning of time, created you with care and He set aside good things for you to do during your time on earth. He takes great delight in you. When you are tempted to believe a lie from a teammate, peer or social media post, remember that you are God’s child. Stand confident that You have been created by a mighty and loving God who put His breath into your lungs.

Quit looking around at where you want to fit in. With God, you already belong.

Go 
  • How has God uniquely created you?
  • How does knowing the God of the universe created you change your outlook on yourself?
  • List some of the good ways God has created you to help impact others around you.
Workout 

Genesis 1:26-27; Psalm 139:13-16; Ephesians 2:10

Overtime 

“Father, thank You that You took care to make us exactly as we are. Thank You that You care about my interests, my hopes and dreams and you desire a closer relationship with me. Help me when I stray to thinking about what others think about me; may I stand firm in my identity as Your child. You enable me to do all things through Christ who is my strength. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Bible Reference: 
Genesis 2:7