Your Identity In Christ

Who are you? Trying to define yourself by possessions, accomplishments, or the way others perceive you often leads to disappointment. We were designed to live as God’s children, finding our ultimate fulfillment and contentment in His will for our lives. Unless we define our identity primarily by our relationship with Christ, we will encounter problems over time.

Our identity “in Christ” is emphasized over and over in Scripture. Below is a summary of what the Bible says about us:

Forgiven for our sins though the death of Jesus (Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 2:13-14)

Accepted in Christ (Romans 15:7)

Wholeness in Christ (Colossians 2:9-10, 1 Corinthians 6:17)

Adopted as God's Child (John 1:12, Ephesians 1:5)

A friend of Jesus (John 15:15)

Victory over the power of the enemy (Romans 6:6)

Chosen to bear fruit (John 15:16)

Part of a royal priesthood and a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9)

A citizen of Heaven, part of the Heavenly Kingdom (Philippians 3:20, Colossians 1:13-14)

Other people, satan, your experiences, and even your own thoughts will tell you all kinds of lies about your significance. That’s why you must take God’s perspective to heart. Monitor your thoughts closely. As you become aware of falsehoods, replace them with truth.

The clear teaching of the New Testament is that we should act consistent with who we are in Christ. We don’t need to try in order to be.

Ask the Lord how you should act on your new identity. This includes two parts: saying no to sinful patterns, and choosing God’s best. For instance, someone tempted to gossip must both resist sharing hurtful facts about others and develop healthy interests to discuss. A stingy person must not only deny the fear that God won’t provide; she must also choose to give generously to others.

Don’t live as a spiritual pauper, trying to find your security and significance through people, accomplishments, or possessions. As a believer in Jesus, you are a child of the King of Kings. Learn to walk in the spiritual victory He provides.

Prayer: Lord, Your Word tells me I am a new creation in Christ, but sometimes I have difficulty living in light of that truth. Teach me how to recognize my false beliefs and replace them with Your perspective. Reveal to me the great security I have as Your child. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Adapted from "Discovering Your Identity in Christ" bible study by Charles Stanley.

http://www.intouch.org/site/c.cnKBIPNuEoG/b.5307569/k.3B0A/Discovering_Your_Identity_in_Christ.htm

© 2009 In Touch Ministries® All Rights Reserved.