Designed by God

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. Colossians 1:16

I am the primary cook in my family. I enjoy trying new recipes, which I did for a Christmas cookie swap among our office team. I know; it is a risky move, trying something new to share with others. The cookie recipe I chose was one of Danette’s favorites from her childhood, peanut butter blossoms. They were relatively easy to make and turned out great. Taking raw ingredients and creating a fabulous-looking dessert that tastes amazing is so much fun!

When we hear the word creator, we often think about artists, inventors, builders, or chefs, people who make something from materials that already exist. These creators sometimes make mistakes. They may even have to start over. The process of creating may be a struggle for them. They learn through trial and error. Creating requires time and effort. 

Take a few minutes to read Genesis 1. In these verses, we see where God alone is the ultimate Creator. But He is different. God created from nothing. He didn’t have or need materials or tools. He spoke, and it happened. He didn’t need instructions or a recipe, and He didn’t experiment, guess, or struggle. God’s creation wasn’t random, instead it was intentional and meticulous. It shows God’s power. All of the things listed in Genesis 1 came into being because God willed it.  

The first word translated as “God” in the Bible appears in Genesis 1:1. In Hebrew, Elohim denotes the mighty one and creator of the heavens and the earth. Elohim is the plural form of Eloha, suggesting a Godhead of three-Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They were all present during the creation of the world. 

Notice how God responded after each day of His creation. He responded with ‘it is good’ except after He created mankind on day 6. He responded, “It is very good.” We are God’s crowning creation. Genesis 1:27 says, “So God created man in his own image; he created him in the image of God; he created them male and female.” We reflect Him in ways the rest of creation does not: we can love, reason, create, choose, worship, and care for others. We are created for relationships and entrusted with responsibility over His world.

Psalm 139:14 reminds us that we are intentionally made. We are part of God’s design. God made each of us remarkable and wonderful. He knows what is best for us, and He is in control. We need to put to rest our striving to conform to what the world tells us to be and reclaim our satisfaction in the identity that the enemy is attempting to steal or has already stolen. Psalm 139:16 states that God sees us and values us. This should affect how we see ourselves, how we live our lives, and how we treat others. 

God didn’t stop working after Genesis 1. He is still creating: new life, new beginnings, changed hearts. Through Jesus, God makes us new creations—restoring what’s broken and shaping us into who He designed us to be.

God, as Creator, reminds us that He is bigger than any problem we face. Nothing is too hard for Him. The same God who created galaxies also cares about the daily details of our lives. He loves us, has a plan for us, and desires a personal relationship with us. May we carry these truths with us into 2026. 

Call to Action

Because God is Creator, Elohim, we don’t have to be in control of anything. He is sovereign. In what areas of your life are you trying to be in control? How can you release this control to Him? 

God entrusted the world to us. How can you care for God’s creation? Remember, we are stewards, not owners. 

God created you, so your life has purpose. How can you reject the lie that you are insignificant? How can you discover your purpose? How might you use your gifts to serve others?

The Creator makes every person, so we should treat them with dignity. Be conscious in the days ahead to demonstrate kindness and love, to show respect, to stand up for the overlooked, and to speak truth. 

Go for a walk or a drive to take in and be thankful for God’s creation.

Digging Deeper

Read these additional verses: Psalm 33:6, Isaiah 44:24, Nehemiah 9:6, John 1:3, Romans 1:20, Ephesians 2:10, Hebrews 11:3, Revelation 4:11.

Prayer

God, thank You for being our Creator. Thank You for the wonder, beauty, and detail woven into Your creation. Thank you for creating each of us in Your image with purpose. Help us trust You when life feels uncertain and remember that the same God who created everything is still at work in us. Shape us into who You want us to be.

Copyright © 2025 Kyle Cravens