There was a time, long ago, when God painted the most infamous piece of art in the world: creation. He revealed Himself to be a masterfully exquisite artist. He spoke; whether in a booming, animated voice, or a satisfied whisper, we might never know. But His very words formed the intricate, stunning world around us. I wonder what He created before the world.
And there came a moment, the climax of creation, when God put the finishing touches on His unparalleled work. The Creator bent down to the newborn ground. He scooped up a handful of dust, and formed a man out of it. Did His heart pound with eager anticipation? Or was He calm and content? He made the man in His own image, the image of creation’s Artist! And He used His own breath to infuse life through the man’s nostrils. I find this fascinating. Of all the materials God could have used to form mankind, He picks dirt (a very humble reminder). And yet, at the same time, He creates man in His image. What?!
My Creator has made and fashioned me exactly as He intended and desired. And as much as I resent it at times, He created me with weaknesses. He created me to be utterly dependent on Him, even on my best days. I was essentially made from dust, to which my earthly body will one day return. Let’s face it: the only good thing about me is the imago dei part, and that has absolutely nothing to do with me anyways! Like I said – humbling. I am a brittle jar of clay housing the most precious treasure in the world.
One of the biggest weaknesses I have been fighting lately is doubt. I am constantly fighting it. Doubt that I’ve made the right choice to go on the World Race when I am, or even at all; doubt that God will provide financially; doubt that I am cut out for such a huge ministry opportunity; doubt that I can trust God; doubt that He has equipped me; doubt that I am a conqueror in Christ. Doubt, doubt, doubt. It’s become a storm cloud hovering over me.
And then God quiets my over-active imagination with these words: “As for you, O Lord, you will not restrain your mercy from me; your steadfast love and your faithfulness will ever preserve me” – Psalm 40:11.
It’s not about my feelings. It’s not about me at all. It’s not about the jar of clay, but the treasure inside. It’s not about the human created from dust, but about the One who breathed life. I can overcome doubt because God’s steadfast love and faithfulness will preserve me! He knows my weaknesses, my fears and failings, and He more than makes up for them in His never-changing character. I don’t know the presence of doubt will ever retreat, but I do know that my Creator’s presence indwelling me is stronger and stubbornly steadfast. I know that in my weakness, He is made strong. I may be created from dust, but I have the Spirit’s fruit of patience, faith and love to bear. Everything good in me is Jesus. The rest is just dirt.
If you want to hear an absolutely incredible sermon about this concept of being made from dirt, click the link below. I heard this message 5-6 years ago and still remember it clearly because Robert Madu is such an engaging, Spirit-filled speaker.
ALSO! I am currently selling t-shirts in order to raise money! If you have interest, please let me know ASAP!
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