Every one of us who walks this road of life goes through a season of self-discovery. We struggle to navigate who we truly are in so many areas. The world is telling us one thing. God is telling us something else, and “our heart” can often contradict both. People often do things based on emotions (their “heart”), only to regret them later.
When I had experienced the days of blessing as I served in church ministry, I placed my identity in my role as a minister. Maybe you have based your identity on your parenting skills, giftedness at work, athletic ability, or some other thing. You have a beautiful identity without all of that.
I sit here typing this today with the realization that God gave me a new identity when I gave my life to Christ. I am a child of God who is justified, sanctified (set apart), and a man with an eternal destiny paid for by the death and resurrection of Jesus. No sickness, earthly demotion, or anything else will steal my real identity.
Maybe you’re reading this and feel like you’re not good enough. Jesus loves you unconditionally. His love for you is not based on your performance. You will still mess up along the way, but He will not steal your identity. He gave it to you!
If you don’t have a relationship with Christ, you have an identity of a man or woman who is separated from God. Will you accept the free gift of God that is in Jesus Christ? The offer always stands. It’s time to trade you sin for His robe of righteousness. What do you have to lose? You’ll lose the sorry life that we’re born with in exchange for the abundant life that Jesus gives. Discover the real you in Jesus today!
Matthew Winters (Honest Thoughts from a Pastor) 