Through The Bible in a Year - April 10, 2026
A reminder: “All are made in the image of God.” – Genesis 1:27
This week we are considering the lies that David Brooks, New York Times columnist and former atheist, says turn us from the fulfillment our Lord intends for us. The second lie: a rich and successful person is worth more than a poor and struggling person. Something deep in us says the “haves” are worth more because they have more. And if what they have is at the expense of others, that’s just the cost of success – for some.
King Solomon’s son, Rehoboam wielded his power with cruelty so blunt, so callous, so selfish that we think, ‘I would never do that.’ And yet we all know unfeeling souls who are willing to take advantage of others with the reasoning that you get ahead by looking out for number one.
A pastor was once asked to explain his pro-life position to a high school class. He didn’t argue. He asked: “What if every person in this class were made in the image of God and as precious to God as Jesus Himself? The student with the D and the honor roll student equally precious?”
The students said, “That would be wonderful.”
He continued: “What I believe is that not just every person in the classroom, but every person in the womb and world is of equal value to God because each is made in His image, and as precious to God as Jesus Himself. And I think that’s wonderful, too.”
What would it mean if we truly believed that the God of grace gave equal value to all those around us – if we believed all were precious to God because they are made in his image. How would it change your heart if everyone thought, “I am not worth more than you?” How would it affect how we treat employees, customers, vendors, outcasts, immigrants, enemies?
What would be the effect on you, if you always thought, “I am never worth more than any other person in God’s eyes because his grace makes all of equal value?”
Respond: The fact that God loves all that he has made means that we must question, “Who am I tempted to treat as less valuable than myself? Employees? The poor? Political opponents? Difficult peers or co-workers? People who disagree with me or damage me?” Today, ask, “How would my decisions change if I truly believed every person is made in the image of God and equally precious to Him?”
Prayer: Lord, forgive me for thinking I’m worth more than others – forgive me for acting that way. Forgive me for taking advantage, for ignoring suffering, for treating people as less valuable because they have less power, stature, or wealth. Help me see every person as graciously made in Your image—people so precious to you that you sent Jesus for them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.