Discovering Your True Identity in Christ
As a child of God, your identity is a precious gift, crafted by the divine hand of the Father. It’s a new creation, born from the ashes of your old self, and nurtured by the gentle whispers of the Holy Spirit. But, have you ever stopped to consider what this means? Have you ever wrestled with the implications of being a servant of the living God?
A Lifetime Journey
Working out the details of your new identity is a lifelong process. It’s a journey marked by twists and turns, as the Holy Spirit shapes and molds you into the image of Christ. Along the way, you’ll encounter false identities, masquerading as the real thing. Perhaps you’ve defined yourself by your career, or your relationships, or even your own desires. But, these are mere impostors, pretending to be the truth.
The Battle for Self-Understanding
The first step in embracing your true identity is to recognize the lies that have held you captive. What are the false narratives that have shaped your self-understanding? Is it the need for control, or the desire for validation? Once you’ve identified these impostors, you can begin to replace them with the truth. You can learn to trust in the sovereignty of God, and find freedom in your fragility and dependence.
From False Identities to True Freedom
This from-to dynamic is at the heart of the Christian life. It’s a movement from the old to the new, from the false to the true. As you journey through this process, you’ll come to know yourself as you truly are – a beloved child of the Father, a servant of the King, and a vessel for the Holy Spirit.
The Promise of Completion
One day, you’ll see Christ face-to-face, and in that moment, you’ll know yourself fully. All the partial senses of your true identity will come together, and you’ll behold the beauty of your own soul. You’ll know that you are loved, that you are forgiven, and that you are complete.
Embracing the Journey
David Powlison, a wise teacher and counselor, once wrote, “The from-to dynamic is central and threads throughout the whole of the Christian life.” May his words be a reminder to you, as you embark on this journey of self-discovery. May you find the courage to confront the lies that have held you captive, and may you discover the freedom that comes from embracing your true identity in Christ.
Leave a Reply