Identity in Christ: Finding Your True Self

The Search for Identity

Many people ask themselves, “Who am I?” It’s a big question, and it can be tough to answer. You might have asked yourself this question too. As you grow up, you start figuring out who you are and where you fit in. Some days, you might feel confident, but other days, you might feel confused or lost. This is totally normal, and it’s called an “identity crisis.”

In today’s world, there’s a lot of focus on finding your identity. People say you can find it in your clothes, your music, or your friends. But these things can change, and they don’t really define who you are. Even if you change your style, you’re still you. The Bible tells us there’s a better way to find our identity—by looking to Jesus Christ.

Worldly Identity vs. Christian Identity

When people talk about “worldly identity,” they’re talking about who you are based on what you do or what others think about you. For example, if you’re good at sports, you might see yourself as an athlete. If you’re popular at school, you might think of yourself as cool. But what if you get hurt and can’t play sports anymore? What if your friends move away? If your identity is built on these things, it can fall apart quickly.

Christian identity is different. It’s about who you are in God’s eyes. In the book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Ephesians 2:10). This means that you are special because God made you, and He has a purpose for your life. It’s not about what you do, but about what Jesus has done for you.

What Does the Bible Say?

In the Bible, there are stories about people who found their identity in God. One of these people is Moses. When God asked him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses was scared. He didn’t think he could do it. But God told him that He would be with him. Moses’ identity wasn’t about what he could do—it was about God’s plan for him.

Another story is about the Apostle Peter. Before he met Jesus, he was just a fisherman. But after he followed Jesus, he became a leader in the early church. Peter’s identity wasn’t just about catching fish; it was about sharing the good news of Jesus.

Building Your Identity on Solid Ground

Jesus talks about building a house on a rock or on sand (Matthew 7:24-27). If you build on sand, the house will fall when storms come. But if you build on rock, the house will stand strong. This is like building your identity. If you build on things that can change, like friends or popularity, your identity might crumble when things get tough. But if you build on Jesus, your identity will be strong, even when life gets hard.

How Christian Identity Changes You

When you understand your identity in Christ, it changes the way you see yourself. Instead of focusing on what you want, you start thinking about how you can serve God and help others. The Apostle Paul writes in Philippians, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). This means that your life isn’t just about you—it’s about loving and helping others.

Being a Christian doesn’t mean you won’t have problems. It means you have a solid foundation to stand on. When things change, you can stay strong because you know who you are in Christ. You know that God has a plan for you, and you can trust Him to guide you through life’s ups and downs.

Reflecting on Your Identity

It’s important to think about what makes you, you. What are the things that shape your identity? Are they things that can change, like clothes or sports? Or are they things that last, like your relationship with God?

If you’re not sure, that’s okay. Take some time to pray and ask God to show you who you are in Him. Read the Bible and see what God says about you. Talk to your parents, pastors, or Christian counselors if you need help understanding what it means to have a Christian identity.

Taking Action: Steps to Strengthen Your Identity in Christ

1. Pray for Guidance: Ask God to help you understand who you are in Him.
2. Read the Bible: Find verses that talk about God’s love and His plan for you. Start with Ephesians 2:8-10 or Jeremiah 29:11.
3. Talk to a Christian Counselor: If you’re struggling with identity, seek Christian counseling. A counselor can help you understand how to find your true identity in Christ.
4. Serve Others: Find ways to help others in your community or church. This will help you focus on God’s plan for you.
5. Stay Connected to Church: Being around other Christians can help you grow in your faith and strengthen your identity in Christ.