Do You Know Your Identity in Christ?

 

 

 

Do you know your identity in Christ?

We can define ourselves by our roles, our work, or our family but those descriptions are not our true identity. So many situations challenge the very core of who we are.

 

The confused culture tries to convince us of its lies instead of us embracing our identity in the Lord.

 

“but now, this is what the Lord says–he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: Do not fear for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1-2 NIV

This passage is a favorite because it reminds me of my true identity.

Created by God, redeemed, and called by name

Created by God

Life is created by God. God’s imagination is incomprehensible! He created each of us with our unique talents, personalities, creativity, and quirks. We are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). We are all different, yet bear the image of the Creator who loves us.

God doesn’t make junk, even when I judge myself as worthless. At that time I have to remember the truth of being created and loved by God.

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

The word handiwork means masterpiece in the original language. A masterpiece is highly valued and cherished. That’s how God views us, even when we think we are a mess-terpiece. On the contrary, we are deeply loved by our Creator in spite of our sin.

Redeemed by God

God created us but sin has marred us, separating us from our Maker. Although we are God’s unique workmanship we still need a redeemer.

The word redeem means to buy back. Through the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, God has bought us back into relationship with Him. Now we can have access to God and forgiveness of sin. Because of his great love and grace, we are made new.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

God’s grace redeems us, calling each one of us by name.

Called, or Summoned, by Name

God knows my struggles and flaws, yet still loves me. I’m not a number on a form or a nameless person waiting in line.

When I was young, the kids played together throughout the neighborhood. When it was time for supper, Mom stood on the front porch and loudly called my name. I knew it was time to go home when I heard her calling me.

God calls us to himself, desiring relationship with us.

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.  John 14:27 NIV

But here’s the thing: I have to calm my heart and tune my ears to hear Him. Otherwise, the noise of the culture conceals God’s gentle summoning.

One bad day doesn’t define you or me. Disappointments will happen. But God is still sovereign and loving.
He calls each of us by name because we are loved by our Creator.

When you struggle with wondering who you are, may you remember these truths—that God created you in his image, has redeemed you for relationship with him, and has called you by name.