Your True Identity

“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead...” 1 Peter 1:1-3

Researchers say that a lack of true identity is the reason for the high suicide rate among young adults. Many spend a lifetime trying to gain recognition and a sense of belonging and accomplishment. As Christians, our identity is found only in Jesus Christ. Searching for it in another person or thing brings disappointment, insecurity, frustration, and anxiety.

Far too often those who profess Jesus as Lord are entrapped by the same things enslaving our world - pride, selfishness, and materialism. Jesus said that in order to save your life, you must be willing to lose it unto Him (Luke 9:24). We cannot experience the freedom and purity of our identity in Christ if we are sill longing to be identified with the things of this world.

In reminding the early church of their identity, Peter told them: Yes, it was true; they were aliens - strangers to this world. Yet they had been chosen by God to know and experience all the wonder and goodness of His glory and grace. Therefore, their identity was secure in Christ.

Have you settled the need for identity in your own life? If so, rest in the power of His embrace.