Finding our identity in the Lord

 

As humans, we're an insecure and neurotic bunch. Many of us worry our way through the day, constantly anxious about how other people see us, unsure if we're reaching our potential, questioning ourselves at every turn. 

There is a reason why the self-help section in every book store is so big!

Fundamentally, all of these concerns stem from questions about identity. Who we are as people, what our role and function is. We naturally seek an explanation for we are, so we find ways to measure and codify our identity. The reason so many of us are consumed in worry and consternation about these issues isn't because we're possessed of some uniquely terrible flaw (everyone has their share of flaws, it's normal, not exceptional), it's because the things we base our identity on are bogus.

We base our identity on our jobs. Think of how many introductions begin with "what do you do?” as the very first question? We might as well just ask each other "who are you?” 

We fret about the supposed status and clout conferred by our earthly, temporary titles. Some of us become workaholics because of it. Others become resentful. Some of us are just ashamed. Of course, the big kicker is no matter how successful or prestigious you are, it's never enough. There is always one more rung to climb, one more accomplishment to achieve. 

There is nothing wrong with taking pride in your profession, but when it becomes a cornerstone of your personal identity, you're setting yourself up for pain!

We base our identify on our relationships. The people we know, who we date and marry. Or our abilities, our skills and personal talents that set us apart. Or on a million other fragile little things that we really have no control over. That could easily change overnight or be lost in an instant, leaving us unmoored, adrift, and lost in an instant. Is it any wonder people get neurotic about this kind of thing? 

But there is something stronger to base your identity on – the everlasting love and grace of God.

When we make our spiritual life with God the center of our identity, we break free of all the neurosis and self-doubt that plague our minds. We attach out sense of purpose to something far larger and more stable than ourselves. Something glorious and eternal. We're not defined by what others think of us, what we do for a paycheque, or how big that paycheque is – we're defined by the Holy Spirit, made whole by God's grace.

This is the life God wants for us. One free of petty preoccupations and worldly measures of accomplishment. When we have the confidence and conviction of character of the Lord in our hearts, we can face the world boldly and purposefully. As it says in 2 Corinthians 1:22, he will "set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.”

Look at your own life, what do you base your identity on? Are you stuck on the treadmill of trying to measure your self-worth by worldly standards? Or have you truly embraced your walk with the Lord as the foundation of your identity?