And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. Philippians 1:6 NLT
When I know my identity, I know my true worth. The proverbial statement is, “Something is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it.” Jesus proved my great worth and value when He paid for me with His own life.
When I know my identity, I can quit playing the comparison game. When I know who I am, I have no need to compare myself to anyone else. I live to please One. He sees me and understands me perfectly.
When I know my identity, I lose the labels and know my new name. Every one of us knows what it is like to be labeled. Lazy, loser, no-good, failure. Some labels maybe aren’t “bad,” but they are limiting – shy, fearful, depressed. Families, friends, teachers who care deeply about us can even give us labels without intending to shackle us, yet they do. Getting a firm grip on our identity in Christ helps us accept our new names. We are His Beloved (Romans 1:7) We are Chosen (Luke 12:32). Those truths can trump our feelings and help us walk in truth. It will also enable us to quit labeling others whom God loves.
When I know my identity, my fear of the future dissipates. When I know I belong to a Loving, All-Powerful Father and King, I can no longer be frozen by fear or stuck in shame. When I know that the One who knows me best (completely) and loves me most (unconditionally) is sovereign (having supreme, absolute power, authority, and control over every aspect of existence), I can be secure and stable in all situations. Because I am His beloved child, my home is in heaven. Jesus has prepared a place for me there (John 14), and even here He will always be with me. I can face the most difficult seasons with confidence and know my purpose will be fulfilled.
When I know my identity, my intimacy with God grows. Seeing myself as His child turns prayer into conversation with a loving Father. True relationship flourishes.
- God has already declared you His Beloved child. Live like it. Everything changes for the good and for forever when you do.