You Are Who God Says You Are: Living in Your True Identity
"For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
—2 Corinthians 5:14-17 (NIV)
Reflection: Resting in Your True Identity
In our world, so much of how we view ourselves is shaped by external factors—what we do, how others perceive us, and even how successful we are. If you’re on a fundraising journey for ministry, you might feel tempted to measure your value by how quickly or how much support you raise. But the truth of Scripture reminds us that our worth and identity are not defined by our achievements or by the opinions of others. Instead, they are anchored in who God says we are.
New Creation in Christ
In 2 Corinthians 5:17, the Apostle Paul declares a profound truth: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” This verse is a powerful reminder that, in Christ, we are completely transformed. Our old selves—marked by sin, failure, and worldly labels—are gone. Instead, we are made new, defined not by what we’ve done but by what Christ has done for us. Through His death and resurrection, He gives us a new identity that is eternal and unshakable.
Your identity is no longer based on past mistakes, societal labels, or fleeting accomplishments. Instead, it is rooted in the unchanging truth of God’s Word. No matter the challenges or pressures you face, especially in something as challenging as support raising, remember this: you are a new creation in Christ. That truth never changes, no matter how many obstacles arise or how long the fundraising journey takes.
The World’s Identity vs. God’s Identity
It’s easy to let the world define us by temporary and often superficial standards. Maybe you’ve been identified by your GPA, your athletic accomplishments, or whether you belonged to a specific organization. Perhaps the world has tried to define you by your job title, financial success, or social media following. While these may hold some significance in the world’s eyes, they are not what give you lasting value.
The world’s labels are fleeting and ever-changing. One day, you might feel on top of the world; the next, you might feel inadequate. But God calls you to a deeper, more enduring identity. In Christ, you are defined not by what you do or how others see you, but by who He says you are.
Who Does God Say You Are?
God’s Word provides a clear picture of your identity in Christ:
You Are a Child of God
John 1:12 says, “But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” You are not just anyone; you are a beloved child of the Creator of the universe. Your worth comes from belonging to Him.You Are Forgiven and Redeemed
Ephesians 1:7 reminds us, “In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.” Your sins, mistakes, and shortcomings have been washed away by His grace. You are forgiven and redeemed.You Are Chosen and Loved
Colossians 3:12 declares, “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” You are chosen by God, set apart, and dearly loved. No amount of worldly achievement or failure can change that.
Resting in Your True Identity
This week, let’s focus on walking in the truth of who we are in Christ. Your value doesn’t come from how much support you raise or how quickly you reach your goal. It’s not defined by how successful you are in ministry or any external factor. Your value is secure because you are a new creation in Christ.
When doubts arise, and you’re tempted to compare yourself to others or feel inadequate, remember this: God’s love for you is unchanging. You are His beloved child, forgiven, redeemed, chosen, and deeply loved. That is your true identity, and it will never fade.
Reflection Questions:
What are some "old" things in your life that God has transformed or is still transforming? How have you grown spiritually?
In your support raising journey, are you comparing yourself to others? to your expectations for yourself, or something else? If so repent, and rest in who Christ says you are!
In what ways can we practically live out our new identity in Christ? Specifically in support raising?
As you reflect on these questions, remember that your identity in Christ is not based on your performance or the outcome of your fundraising efforts. It is rooted in the unshakable truth of who God says you are. Rest in that truth, and let it shape your heart, ministry, and life.
