I want to share some thoughts on a topic that is close to my heart – our personal identity in Christ. I often hear people say they struggle with feeling unworthy and unlovable, and that they aren’t measuring up. Too many people believe lies about their identity. These lies are holding them back from living the full life that God has for them. It is unfortunate that we often seek our identity in our accomplishments, relationships, or even societal expectations. But the beauty of our faith is that our identity is not defined by external factors or fleeting circumstances. It is firmly grounded in our relationship with Jesus Christ.

I love this quote by Philip Yancey – “God loves people because of who God is, not because of who we are.” Yancey’s words highlight the profound truth that our identity is not rooted in our own merit but in God’s unconditional love for us.

Here are 11 significant truths about our identity in Christ.

We are:

1. Children of God: Through faith in Christ, we become children of God. Our identity is rooted in being part of God’s family, with all the privileges and responsibilities that come with it (John 1:12; Romans 8:16).

2. New Creations: In Christ, we are made new. Our old self is transformed, and we are given a fresh identity marked by righteousness and holiness (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:24).

3. Chosen and Set Apart: Christians are chosen and set apart by God for a specific purpose. This identity implies a divine calling and mission to declare God’s praises and live in accordance with His will (1 Peter 2:9; Ephesians 1:4-5).

4. Ambassadors for Christ: We are ambassadors for Christ, representing Him in the world. This identity carries the responsibility of sharing the message of reconciliation and acting as His agents of love and grace (2 Corinthians 5:20).

5. Redeemed and Forgiven: Through Christ’s sacrifice, we are redeemed from sin and forgiven of our transgressions. This identity frees us from the guilt and condemnation of our past and grants us a clean slate (Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14).

6. Indwelt by the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit takes residence in the life of a believer, guiding, empowering, and transforming us. Our identity includes being temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Galatians 5:22-23).

7. Co-Heirs with Christ: As co-heirs with Christ, we share in His inheritance. This identity means that we are recipients of God’s blessings and have an eternal future in His presence (Romans 8:17; Ephesians 1:11-14).

8. Citizens of Heaven: Our true citizenship is in heaven. While we live on Earth, our identity is firmly rooted in our heavenly home, which shapes our values and priorities (Philippians 3:20; Colossians 3:1-2).

9. Transformed Minds: Our identity in Christ includes a transformed mind. We are called to renew our minds through the Word of God, aligning our thoughts with His truth (Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:8-9).

10. Fruitful Branches: Jesus describes us as branches connected to Him, the true vine. Our identity involves bearing fruit and demonstrating the character and love of Christ in our lives (John 15:1-5; Galatians 5:22-23).

11. Overcomers: Through Christ, we are overcomers of the world and its challenges. Our identity empowers us to face trials with faith and endurance (1 John 5:4; Romans 8:37).

It is so important that we understand our true identity as a believer in Jesus Christ. It provides a strong foundation for how we perceive ourselves, how we interact with others, and how we view God. The truth about our identity guides our actions and attitudes and allows us to have the abundant life that Christ offers us.