By Tyshawn Gardner, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Biblical and Religious Studies, Samford University
VALUED BY GOD
Psalm 139:1–10, 13–16
Psalm 139 inspires awe and worship. It is an echo of the most profound theological truth about God in all the Bible: God knows us. This psalm expands on the creation of man narrative seen in Genesis 1:26–27 by providing details that give the reader a glimpse into God’s heart and the constitution of humanity.
One of the most pressing issues in our contemporary society is advocacy for life. Life begins at conception and should be regarded as valuable in every stage.
Every life is important and valuable to God. Christians are not just pro-life — we embrace a whole life position. God wants us to care for, value and advocate for all people, especially those who are vulnerable and marginalized.
Life is sacred because God values us. (1–6)
All human life is sacred. This passage affirms the sanctity of human life by calling attention to the value our Creator places on us. In verse one, the psalmist uses the Hebrew words for “search” and “know” to show the depths of God’s intimate knowledge of us. He created us with precision, care and intentionality. He knows us, and we can know Him.
God created us through His infinite wisdom. He knows our words before they are formed in our minds.
God’s imprint and His image is in every human being, so He values us infinitely. Humanity is the crown of His creation.
Regardless of our ethnicity, country of origin, age, talents, educational level or socioeconomic status, we are created in the image of God, and He values us.
We often make the mistake of placing our confidence in material possessions, feeling as though these external things improve our value. However, we have an inherent value.
Life is sacred because God is with us. (7–10)
The psalmist informs us God is with us. There are no depths or heights where we can escape His presence.
Throughout Scripture, we are reminded that God does not leave nor forsake His people (see Heb. 13:5, Deut. 31:6, 1 Chron. 28:20 as examples).
Paul repeats this theme as he enthusiastically writes, “Neither height nor depth, nor anything in creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 8:39).
Because God values us, He is close to us. He is with us through His Spirit who lives in us. Life is sacred because God is not only with us, but He is in us.
Life is sacred because God created us and has a plan for each of us. (13–16)
Like a masterful artist who uses the most precious material and takes years to create a perfect masterpiece that will be valued by millions, God created us, values us and wants us to value one another.
Believers can live in the confidence of God’s love when we acknowledge the value He places on us and His perfect plan for our lives. Every person created in the image of God is also created to fulfill a purpose.
God’s redemptive plan includes those He created. Life is sacred because His plan involves every person.
We are fearfully and wonderfully made by a Creator who cares for us and intentionally, meticulously places His imprint on us. His plans for us are reflected in the value He has in every human life.
Share with others: