This past Sunday, we learned that no matter what we believe about God, He created us in His image. Technology and image–believe it or not–are connected. Technology can give us the tools and power to make ourselves into the image we want to portray. We can shape how others see us. And sometimes, it’s easy to forget who we really are–the person God created.

We have value because God created us. Consider your identity. Who are you–really? In what do you find your true identity and sense of worth? In other words, what makes you, you? Are the sources of your self-worth healthy or unhealthy?

Read this passage slowly, but mouth the words of the verses as you read. What does this say about your identity? What is Christ’s role in shaping your identity? How does this picture of your identity compare to those first thoughts?

Ephesians 1:11-19 (The Message) It’s in Christ that we found out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone. It’s in Christ that you, once you heard the truth and believed it (this Message of your salvation), found yourselves home free–signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit. This signet from God is the first installment on what’s coming, a reminder that we’ll get everything God has planned for us, a praising and glorious life.

That’s why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the followers of Jesus, I couldn’t stop thanking God for you–every time I prayed, I’d think of you and give thanks. But I do more than thank. I ask–ask the God of our Master, Jesus, the God of glory–to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him–endless energy, boundless strength!

Paul includes several elements in his prayers for the church of Ephesus. It is full of thanksgiving, petitions for intimacy with the Father, clarity for direction, knowledge of a life lived with Christ, and strength.

Make Paul’s prayer in verses 15-19 your own. Ask God to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing Him personally. Ask God to bring to mind a person who needs prayer. Come before God and pray these verses for that person’s current circumstance, situation, and overall life. Pray for his or her identity.

God’s image is in you and on you, and it isn’t going away. So, who are you–really? Who does God say that you are? Who has God determined you to be? What image are you trusting in? What image are you putting your confidence in? Take some time today to reflect on those questions. You are who your Creator intended you to be.