HelpFinder Bible - Flipbook - Page 96
page A94
Dignity See also Equality; Self-Esteem
Dignity is the quality of worth and significance that every human being has been given
when created in the image of God. Every person God created is valued by him. Dignity
has two angles—recognizing our own worth before God, and recognizing that same
worth in others. Unfortunately, our sinful human nature causes us to rank everyone from
important to insignificant. But a proper view of dignity motivates us to responsibly fulfill
God’s purpose for ourselves while also helping others find and achieve God’s purpose
for them. This causes us to respect others and build them up rather than rank them
underneath us. When we realize how esteemed we are by God, the opinions of others
matter less.
What is dignity and where do we get it?
• G E NE S I S 1 :2 7 | So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he
created them; male and female he created them.
• PSA L M 8 :5 | Yet you made them only a little lower than God and crowned them with glory
and honor.
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Dignity is understanding who God made you to be—a human being who bears his
image. In the eyes of the Creator, you have great worth and value and have been made
for a special purpose. Your dignity comes not from what others think about you, but
from the fact that God chose to create you and create within you unique spiritual gifts
and abilities. This should give you the confidence to boldly serve him wherever he
leads you.
What is the evidence of dignity in my life?
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• R U T H 3 :1 1 | “Now don’t worry about a thing, my daughter. I will do what is necessary, for
everyone in town knows you are a virtuous woman.”
• PSA L M 1 1 9 :5 | Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees!
• 2 K I NG S 2 3 :2 5 | Never before had there been a king like Josiah, who turned to the Lord
with all his heart and soul and strength.
• 2 C O R I NT H I A NS 3 :1 6 -1 8 | But whenever someone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.
. . . So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord.
And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into
his glorious image.
You show dignity when your character reflects God’s character. Since you are made in his
image, he is your source of dignity.
How can I live with dignity?
• J A ME S 4 :1 0 | Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.
By recognizing who created you, the source of your dignity, you will live in God’s presence,
by his power, and for his purpose.
• PR O V E R B S 3 :1 -5 | My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands
in your heart. If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying. Never
let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them
deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will
earn a good reputation. Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own
understanding.
By being obedient to God’s Word, the definition of dignity.
• E PH E S I A NS 5 :1 -2 | Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear
children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ.
By pursuing love for others, which is the expression of dignity.
• PR O V E R B S 4 :8 | If you prize wisdom, she will make you great. Embrace her, and she will
honor you.
By pursuing God’s wisdom, the basis of dignity.