Who Are You?
Discovering Your True Identity in God
In a world that constantly bombards us with messages about who we should be, what we should look like, and how we should act, it's easy to lose sight of our true identity. We often find ourselves grappling with questions of self-worth, purpose, and belonging. But what if the answer to "Who are you?" is far simpler and more profound than we've been led to believe?
Let's explore two fundamental truths that can revolutionize how we see ourselves and navigate life's challenges:
1. We are created by a perfect God
Genesis 1:27 tells us, "God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This simple yet powerful statement carries immense implications for our identity and worth.
Firstly, it means we are intentional. We are not accidents or afterthoughts, but carefully designed creations. The divine counsel of the Trinity decided, "Let us make man in our image." This deliberate act imbues us with inherent dignity and value.
Being made in God's image grants us unique qualities that set us apart from all other creation:
- The ability to reason and think abstractly
- The capacity to imagine and envision the future
- The power to communicate complex emotions
- The aptitude to discern and appreciate beauty
- The capability to respond to God in worship, love, and obedience
These characteristics make us God's representatives on earth, entrusted with the stewardship of His creation. We are, in essence, His viceroys – a role that speaks volumes about our worth in His eyes.
However, many of us struggle to embrace this truth. We fall prey to theories that diminish our value:
- Evolution: The idea that we're here by chance, making us our own gods
- Error: The belief that God made a mistake in creating us
- Effort: Defining our worth by others' validation, especially through social media
These misconceptions can lead to devastating consequences for our mental health and self-perception. But the truth remains – we are infinitely valuable to our Creator.
Consider the poignant words of Romans 5:8: "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." This verse beautifully illustrates our worth in God's eyes. He didn't wait for us to clean up our act; He loved us at our messiest, most broken state.
2. We are saved by a perfect Savior
Our identity isn't just rooted in our creation; it's also profoundly shaped by our redemption. Galatians 2:16 reminds us that we are "justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified."
This truth combats several common misconceptions about salvation:
- The belief that we can save ourselves through good deeds
- The idea that we need to add to God's grace to truly earn salvation
- The notion that we're too far gone to be saved
Instead, we are saved by faith in Christ alone. This salvation is:
- Complete: We are fully and equally saved the moment we trust in Christ
- Eternal: It doesn't wear out or expire
- Transformative: It changes how we relate to others and view ourselves
Being saved by a perfect Savior means we are rescued from hell, condemnation, and eternal separation from God. But it also means we are saved for a purpose – to glorify God, serve others, and experience true peace, contentment, and hope.
Embracing Our True Identity
When we truly grasp these two fundamental truths – that we are created by a perfect God and saved by a perfect Savior – it radically alters how we see ourselves and interact with the world around us.
Instead of walking into a room thinking, "Here I am," desperate for validation and recognition, we can confidently enter thinking, "There you are," ready to serve and give to others. Our vertical relationship with God naturally flows into horizontal relationships with those around us, fostering genuine community and connection.
This shift in perspective can give us the strength to persevere through life's challenges, much like the story of Nicholas Irving, an Army Ranger sniper in Afghanistan. During a grueling firefight, exhausted and ready to give up, Irving was reminded of his identity: "You are a Ranger." Those simple words gave him the willpower to push through and complete his mission.
In the same way, remembering our identity in Christ can provide the strength and courage we need to face life's battles. Knowing whose we are answers the question of who we are.
Practical Steps to Embrace Your True Identity
1. Meditate on Scripture: Regularly reflect on verses that speak to your identity in Christ, such as Psalm 139:14 - "I am fearfully and wonderfully made."
2. Practice Gratitude: Thank God daily for creating you with intention and purpose.
3. Serve Others: Look for opportunities to put your God-given abilities to use in serving those around you.
4. Limit Social Media: Be mindful of how much validation you seek from likes and follows. Instead, find your worth in God's unchanging love for you.
5. Speak Truth to Yourself: When negative thoughts arise, counter them with the truth of who God says you are.
6. Join a Community: Surround yourself with others who will remind you of your true identity in Christ.
7. Celebrate Your Uniqueness: Embrace the ways God has uniquely gifted and designed you, rather than comparing yourself to others.
As we journey through life, let's hold fast to the liberating truth that we are masterpieces created by a perfect God and redeemed by a perfect Savior. In this identity, we find our true worth, purpose, and the strength to face whatever challenges come our way. Remember, you are who God says you are – beloved, valuable, and destined for greatness in His kingdom.
In Christ,
In a world that constantly bombards us with messages about who we should be, what we should look like, and how we should act, it's easy to lose sight of our true identity. We often find ourselves grappling with questions of self-worth, purpose, and belonging. But what if the answer to "Who are you?" is far simpler and more profound than we've been led to believe?
Let's explore two fundamental truths that can revolutionize how we see ourselves and navigate life's challenges:
1. We are created by a perfect God
Genesis 1:27 tells us, "God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This simple yet powerful statement carries immense implications for our identity and worth.
Firstly, it means we are intentional. We are not accidents or afterthoughts, but carefully designed creations. The divine counsel of the Trinity decided, "Let us make man in our image." This deliberate act imbues us with inherent dignity and value.
Being made in God's image grants us unique qualities that set us apart from all other creation:
- The ability to reason and think abstractly
- The capacity to imagine and envision the future
- The power to communicate complex emotions
- The aptitude to discern and appreciate beauty
- The capability to respond to God in worship, love, and obedience
These characteristics make us God's representatives on earth, entrusted with the stewardship of His creation. We are, in essence, His viceroys – a role that speaks volumes about our worth in His eyes.
However, many of us struggle to embrace this truth. We fall prey to theories that diminish our value:
- Evolution: The idea that we're here by chance, making us our own gods
- Error: The belief that God made a mistake in creating us
- Effort: Defining our worth by others' validation, especially through social media
These misconceptions can lead to devastating consequences for our mental health and self-perception. But the truth remains – we are infinitely valuable to our Creator.
Consider the poignant words of Romans 5:8: "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." This verse beautifully illustrates our worth in God's eyes. He didn't wait for us to clean up our act; He loved us at our messiest, most broken state.
2. We are saved by a perfect Savior
Our identity isn't just rooted in our creation; it's also profoundly shaped by our redemption. Galatians 2:16 reminds us that we are "justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified."
This truth combats several common misconceptions about salvation:
- The belief that we can save ourselves through good deeds
- The idea that we need to add to God's grace to truly earn salvation
- The notion that we're too far gone to be saved
Instead, we are saved by faith in Christ alone. This salvation is:
- Complete: We are fully and equally saved the moment we trust in Christ
- Eternal: It doesn't wear out or expire
- Transformative: It changes how we relate to others and view ourselves
Being saved by a perfect Savior means we are rescued from hell, condemnation, and eternal separation from God. But it also means we are saved for a purpose – to glorify God, serve others, and experience true peace, contentment, and hope.
Embracing Our True Identity
When we truly grasp these two fundamental truths – that we are created by a perfect God and saved by a perfect Savior – it radically alters how we see ourselves and interact with the world around us.
Instead of walking into a room thinking, "Here I am," desperate for validation and recognition, we can confidently enter thinking, "There you are," ready to serve and give to others. Our vertical relationship with God naturally flows into horizontal relationships with those around us, fostering genuine community and connection.
This shift in perspective can give us the strength to persevere through life's challenges, much like the story of Nicholas Irving, an Army Ranger sniper in Afghanistan. During a grueling firefight, exhausted and ready to give up, Irving was reminded of his identity: "You are a Ranger." Those simple words gave him the willpower to push through and complete his mission.
In the same way, remembering our identity in Christ can provide the strength and courage we need to face life's battles. Knowing whose we are answers the question of who we are.
Practical Steps to Embrace Your True Identity
1. Meditate on Scripture: Regularly reflect on verses that speak to your identity in Christ, such as Psalm 139:14 - "I am fearfully and wonderfully made."
2. Practice Gratitude: Thank God daily for creating you with intention and purpose.
3. Serve Others: Look for opportunities to put your God-given abilities to use in serving those around you.
4. Limit Social Media: Be mindful of how much validation you seek from likes and follows. Instead, find your worth in God's unchanging love for you.
5. Speak Truth to Yourself: When negative thoughts arise, counter them with the truth of who God says you are.
6. Join a Community: Surround yourself with others who will remind you of your true identity in Christ.
7. Celebrate Your Uniqueness: Embrace the ways God has uniquely gifted and designed you, rather than comparing yourself to others.
As we journey through life, let's hold fast to the liberating truth that we are masterpieces created by a perfect God and redeemed by a perfect Savior. In this identity, we find our true worth, purpose, and the strength to face whatever challenges come our way. Remember, you are who God says you are – beloved, valuable, and destined for greatness in His kingdom.
In Christ,
Pastor Kirk Flaa
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