Genesis 2:7
And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.
As I prepared for our Zoom session yesterday morning, these thoughts came to my mind:
He formed us with his hands.
He made us in his likeness.
He gave us his very breath.
Have you ever created something: a poem, a painting, a recipe, a masterpiece?
If you have, you know the pride you feel as you look at your work. Yesterday, I received a draft book in the mail. It's not a very exciting book; it's a book of quizzes for kindergarten teachers. Nevertheless, I took the time to sit and go through each page. I cannot lie; I felt proud of my accomplishments. I loved the look of the book. I thought it was a good copy from my publisher. I smiled as I placed it on my table.
Can you imagine God's reaction to his creation: man? He thought of himself; he took clay from the earth he made; then when the masterpiece was done, he breathed into it. And at that moment it became a man, a living soul. Why a living soul? Because God placed in Adam that part of God's self - his soul (or spirit if you choose).
I think of the Steven Curtis Chapman song, Fingerprints of God. ("You're a masterpiece that all creation quietly applauds. And you're covered with the fingerprints of God." ) You are a living soul. You are extremely important to your creator. Never forget that. Not only did God create the design for all human beings, but he also breathed into their very lives the soul.
So, today I encourage you. Breathe in! Breathe out! You have just released your soul breath, and that my friend, came from the very breath of God. Nesama (????????) - breath defined as a puff, wind, breath divine inspiration, intellect, blast, soul, spirit. God breathed into you, whether he puffed or blasted, your soul. Hay (???) - life defined as alive, raw, frest, strong, quick, running, springing. God gave you the stamina and strength to feel alive. Nepes (??????) - soul defined as breathing creature, vitality, contented, heart. I am reminded of another song (yes, I love music) by Cochren & Co, Heart and Soul. ("When you say, "Run", I'll say, "How far?" When you say, "Wait," I'll say, "How long?" 'Cause you will never let me go, this I know, Lord, I know. Take my flesh and bones, give me heart and soul.")
So I encourage you this day, remember from where your vitality comes. Remember who breathed his breath into you. Take courage; his breath lasts for eternity.
SBO