Sanctity of Life

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb.
Psalm 139:13 (ESV)

What does the “sanctity of life” mean to you?

Topics like abortion, euthanasia, and embryonic stem-cell research make the news daily. I’m sure it’s something you’ve wondered about. I have too, so I invite you to join me today as we prayerfully consider this verse.

Let’s start by asking ourselves, “What does the Bible say about human life?”

In today’s psalm, King David praises God as the Creator of his “inmost being,” a Hebrew word meaning “kidneys” or “internal organs.” God is the craftsman who “knit” together every single part of David in the womb.

David does not speak of a God Who sets life in motion and then sits back and let nature take its course. He is the God who personally and precisely designs every fiber of your being. The term “sanctity of life” starts with God, because He is the one who purposefully crafts each human being.

To believe God’s Word means you believe the womb is a holy place. This should not be hard to believe since God placed His own Son in a womb. We can therefore not use the word “accident” to describe unplanned pregnancy. God does not do anything by accident.

When you believe God’s Word, it changes how you see yourself and others. You are purposefully knit together. Those born with unique needs or physical differences have all been formed and knit together by the Almighty hands of God.

Do you truly believe in the sanctity of life? Do you now see the holiness of the womb, and the infinite worth of every life placed within? How we view the origin of life is a reflection of how we view God.

So, I ask you, is your view of God too limited?

Prayer: God, I confess that my view of You is too small, and my view of others is not grand enough. Please help me to honor You as not only my Creator, but also as the Creator of all people. May I show others the dignity and love they deserve simply because You made them. In Jesus’ name, amen.