The subject of identity has become a hot-button issue in the last several years. Self-help books and blogs abound, and more and more people are consulting mental health experts to find out “who they really are.” They delve into the past, looking for clues to their identities, searching genealogy websites to learn where they came from. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to know your family’s history. However, even more important than understanding where you came from is realizing who God made you to be and that He made you in His image (Genesis 1:26).
When you were born, you had a destiny, a divine appointment, already planned for you from before the foundation of the world. As a born-again Christian, you are uniquely created to fulfill a specific purpose and you have a unique calling that only you can fulfill.
God wants you to fulfill every facet of your identity and accomplish all you set your hand to, just as He does. Romans 8:29 echoes this: “For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.” The way to fulfill your place in His kingdom is to conform to the identity of Jesus Christ.
Many people mistakenly try to imitate someone else’s image, ministry, or calling. It’s fine to admire other people—but it’s wrong to assume that your ministry call is the same as someone else’s. Each of us need to discover our personal identity and purpose in Christ. Second Corinthians 3:18 tells us how this is done: “We all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”
Unfortunately, many Christians are discontented because they have taken their eyes off the identity that God has for them. They start looking at their circumstances or other Christians to compare themselves—but that’s not what God has called us to focus on! God is the only one who can complete or “repair” your identity.
Romans 12:2 tells you how-to walk-in God’s image: Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” The Word of God is the mirror of all that He has for you—when you look in it and see Him, you recognize your image. When you behold Him and fulfill His image for you, God’s perfect plan for your life will go from glory to glory!
Today’s blog post is taken from Marilyn’s new book, Rebuild Restoring Your God-Given Identity.