In the heart of God, you are His primary interest, of special importance. Men and women are qualitatively different from anything else in the animal or plant world.

This intense personal interest by God can be observed in the contrast between the reports of their creation. There is a distinction never mentioned in the account of plants and animals that is emphasized in the creation of human beings.

Genesis 1:27 states that the human race was created male and female. This distinction of gender is never mentioned in the formation of animals or plants (Gen. 1:2-25). Not once. Yet, animals, too, are obviously created as male and female. But that gender distinction is not cited. Striking!

Thus, the gender difference between humans is of special importance. Male and female are not the same; they are different from the beginning and, together, are the visible representation of God’s image. Together, male and female, as equals in value, importance, and dignity, alone are the best visible example of God’s invisible nature.

You are superior in importance to God over animals. You are not His only interest but you are His primary interest. You, whether female or male, matter deeply to God. God is deeply interested in us. We matter to Him.